Flawless Facade

Ashbourne Mansion—East Wing Guest Room, Same Time

Lenora stood in front of the full-length mirror with her hands gripping the edge of the vanity. Her breath was labored—not from physical exhaustion, but from the stabbing pain every time her cracked ribs moved.

"One more step, Miss," Tessa said with a voice full of worry. The woman stood beside Lenora, hands raised ready to support if her employer