Phoebe's POV
Starbrook Estate sat empty for days, a fine layer of dust coating every surface. Alistair had given the old butler from the Bailey Mansion advance notice, so he'd brought several maids to deep-clean both houses. When Harold and I pulled up, the maids were wrapping up their work, ready to head out.
The butler's weathered face lit up the moment he spotted us climbing out of the car. "Welcome home, Mr. Bailey and Miss Hale."
His eyes found me through his reading glasses, peering past Harold with genuine warmth. "Miss Hale, the trip must have worn you out. I heard you were returning today, so I had the chef whip up those desserts you love. They're waiting in your front room."
I smiled back at him. "That's so thoughtful, thank you."
The butler passed along Mitchell's message before shepherding the maids away.
