The Fairfax estate had become a place of simmering tension over the past several days.
Richard's temper had grown increasingly volatile since Bella's banishment from the household.
Ursula's health had taken a devastating turn after her granddaughter's exile, and she hadn't shown any signs of recovery.
Richard's repeated attempts to see his ailing mother were met with stern refusal from Martha Banks, who guarded Ursula's chambers like a fortress.
Then there was the disgrace brought by his worthless son Gideon.
Word of Gideon's scandalous liaison with Daisy had somehow reached the Emperor's ears.
His Majesty had wasted no time stripping Gideon of his official rank.
The Emperor had assigned him to guard duty at the city gates—a degrading position that made him the laughingstock of the nobility.
Richard's rage had been swift and merciless. He'd ordered Daisy dragged to the estate and forced bitter abortion herbs down her throat as punishment.
