The following morning, the Ravenstrong mansion was filled with a rare hum of life. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, spilling across polished floors and scattering over the fresh flowers Elise had insisted on bringing. The night's celebration lingered faintly in the air, the laughter and warmth woven into the silence of the great house.
Beatrice was the first to leave. She adjusted her scarf as she stood at the door, pausing to look back at Sofia. There was something softer in her gaze than usual, almost protective.
"I'll be back later, Sof," Beatrice said, her tone carrying a quiet promise. "Before Adam arrives. You take care, okay?"
Sofia smiled faintly, touched by her concern. "Thanks, Beatrice. You take care too."
For a moment, it felt like the fragile distance between them had lessened. And that gave Sofia a flicker of hope—that this wasn't just about family duty anymore, but something real growing between sisters.
