I walked toward the grand staircase, my soft-soled maid shoes making no sound on the polished hardwood.

I kept close to the oak paneling, staying within the deep shadows.

Above me, the house was silent except for the low rumble of the storm and those distant voices.

I knew Sofia was probably still in Alexander’s bedroom, watching over her brother with Dr. Voss.

But Luca was in the study.

And Marcus was there with him.

I reached the carpeted landing of the second floor, my chest tight.

The door to the study was slightly ajar, a bright sliver of yellow light cutting across the dark hallway floor.

I crept closer, my back flat against the floral wallpaper.

I could smell the rich, sweet scent of Luca’s expensive cologne.

It mixed with the sharp smell of burning paper from the fireplace inside the study.

“Just sign the document, Marcus,” Luca’s voice was smooth, but there was a hard, dangerous edge to it now.

“I do not have the authority to do that, Luca,” Marcus replied.

His voice was completely calm, devoid of any fear or hesitation.