Dahlia's POV
The sleek black car pulled into the circular driveway of the Swain estate, and I felt Dorian's eyes studying my reflection in the rearview mirror.
"Miss Mathews, Mrs. Swain has been expecting your arrival," the uniformed driver announced as he stepped out to open my door.
Dorian's fingers brushed against mine briefly, his voice dropping to a protective whisper. "I'll be right here waiting for you."
I squeezed his hand once before following the driver toward the entrance of the Swain residence.
The villa possessed an understated elegance that surprised me. Unlike the ostentatious mansions I'd grown accustomed to in this social circle, this home radiated warmth and authenticity. Lush gardens surrounded the property, vibrant flowers creating splashes of color against the manicured lawn. Somewhere in the distance, the soft mewing of a cat drifted through the evening air.
Without warning, a small bundle of fur burst from the hedgerow and streaked across my path.
