As we pulled back up to the estate, the looming figure of the house came into view. I didn't want to admit it, even to myself, but I couldn't help but feel a trace of anxiety about tomorrow. Would I be able to convince these people that I belonged here?
And how would Mark play along with the facade?
I glanced over at Linda, feeling more comfortable with her now. She seemed perceptive, and I had the feeling she knew much more than she let on.
"Linda," I started cautiously as John parked the car, "I know this isn't exactly… standard, but do you have any advice for, well… handling Mark?"
Linda's gaze softened, and a thoughtful look passed over her face as she turned to me. "Mark can be… hard to break through," she admitted, her voice gentle but steady. "He's a private person, and sometimes that means he keeps his guard up around people, especially new ones. But he's not as closed-off as he appears. Once he trusts you, he's… surprisingly caring."
