Elias had recovered well enough to attend tonight's festivities, and the thought warmed her heart. He had been so excited to go, to see everyone gathered again, laughing, alive.
This ball was more than a social affair. It was her way of giving back to the maids, the guards, the servants who had stood by her through uncertain days. An evening of light before the inevitable departure.
If she were to leave with her husband after tonight, let it be on a note of laughter and music, something good to remember, before everything changed.
Leroy entered the chamber without a word. The moment his presence filled the room, both Sylvia and Emma froze. Then, as if by instinct, they curtsied and slipped out, leaving Lorraine alone with him.
He said nothing… only looked at her.
