Valda's POV
Father's grip on my arm was unnecessarily tight as he dragged me through the manor's corridors. Anyone watching would think it affectionate—a father guiding his daughter—but I could feel the urgency in his fingers.
"Not here," he muttered, glancing around at the servants who suddenly found the walls fascinating. "Let's talk in the garden."
We walked to the eastern garden where ancient roses climbed stone walls and the fountain's steady trickle masked conversations. Father looked around to be sure we were alone before he spoke.
"Well?" He asked. "I haven't seen you in a while so you must have news for me."
I couldn't help the smile that spread across my face. "It worked." I said with an air of pride. "All of it."
"Start from the beginning. Every detail."
