Dionne
The northern estate appeared through the trees like something from a postcard.
Stone and timber construction built into the hillside, windows glowing warm against the approaching twilight. It was smaller than Aubrey's main residence but no less impressive, with manicured grounds that probably looked spectacular in daylight.
Now, with shadows lengthening across the driveway, it just looked isolated. Remote in a way that made my skin prickle.
The drive had taken thirty minutes. Thirty minutes of silence so thick I could feel it pressing against my eardrums. The King hadn't spoken once. Hadn't looked at me. Had simply stared out his window like I didn't exist, and I'd been grateful for it.
The car rolled to a stop in front of the main entrance. The driver killed the engine and the sudden quiet was deafening.
The King moved first, reaching for the door handle. The door opened and cold air rushed in, sharp enough to make me inhale reflexively.
