406 "Are you all right?" Margaret asked softly, her voice filled with concern as they walked. "I’m fine, Mother," Darwin replied, though his voice was tighter than he intended. He could feel the tension in his shoulders, the weight of the night pressing down on him. But he couldn’t let it show. No
407 As the evening wore on, Darwin’s unease grew. He noticed several unfamiliar faces among the guests, men who didn’t quite fit in with the usual crowd. Their eyes were sharp, their movements calculated. It didn’t take long for Darwin to realize they weren’t here for the party—they were here for s
408 Darwin chatted politely with guests as he made his way through the ballroom, but his thoughts were elsewhere. He needed air to clear his head and plan his next moves. Spying a set of doors leading to the veranda, he excused himself from the current conversation. The cool night air was a relief
409 The tall, imposing figure at the lead of the rough-looking group was none other than Jacob Black, a notorious enforcer known for his ruthless efficiency and his ability to slip in and out of situations with uncanny ease. His presence immediately sent a ripple of fear through the room, as guests
410 Lady Margaret studied Jacob Black for a long moment, the tension in the room thick enough to cut with a knife. Finally, she nodded, a small, almost imperceptible smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. "Very well, Black. I’ll give you a chance to resolve this—your way." Alexander looked at l
411 With a cruel chuckle, Darwin sidled up to the cowering Alexander and placed a hand on his shoulder in a mockery of comfort. "Now now, chin up, Pennington. Every man makes mistakes. Though I must say, incurring the wrath of Jacob Black does take a special kind of talent." Alexander jerked away,
412 As she returned to the ballroom, lady Margaret could see the relief on Henry’s face, but she didn’t stop to offer any reassurances. There were still too many uncertainties, too many threats lurking in the shadows. Darwin quickly made his way to her, her eyes full of concern. "What happened, mo
413 "Save your pretty words, Pennington. We both know your apologies mean nothing." Darwin's eyes bored into him accusingly. "How many times have you dug yourself into a hole, only to charm and scheme your way out while leaving others to clean up your messes? You're as slippery as an eel." Alexand