A few minutes later, a maid knocked gently on the door and entered. "Sir, would you like something to eat?"
Joshua shook his head, then paused. "Actually, do you know where Claire is?"
The maid nodded. "Mrs. Claire went out to get some things for herself. She mentioned she'd be back soon."
Joshua checked his watch, noting the late hour. "At this time of night?" he mumbled, feeling a flicker of worry but trying to brush it off. "Alright, thank you."
As the minutes turned into an hour, Joshua's worry grew. He walked around the house, unable to shake off the rising sense of unease. He found himself missing her presence, her calming impact, and the way she could always put him at ease after a busy day.
Finally, unable to stand the silence any longer, he pulled out his phone and called Claire. The phone rang several times before going to voicemail. He frowned, calling her number again, but there was still no answer.
