Cold Appraisal

Grover rushed forward to open the main door, bowing deeply. "Mrs. Vivienne, welcome back to Ashbourne mansion."

Vivienne didn't acknowledge him beyond a slight nod. Her eyes were already scanning the foyer, taking in every detail, every face. When her gaze landed on Declan, her expression didn't change—no warmth, no affection, nothing.

"Declan," she said, her voice smooth but cold as ice. "You loo