The grand dining room stood eerily silent, the air heavy with anticipation. I had dismissed all the maids in a fit of anger, their startled faces disappearing through the wide doors. Only Magnus and I remained, standing in front of Selene, who clung to him like a frightened child.
I turned to one of the lingering maids before she could leave. "Where is Grandma Gwen?" I asked, my voice sharp yet laced with concern. The last thing I wanted was to disturb her with what was about to unfold.
"She's at a sleepover at her friend's place," the maid replied hesitantly.
A sly smile spread across my lips. "Perfect."
The doors shut with a soft thud, sealing us in with Selene. She clung tighter to Magnus, her voice trembling in false innocence. "Magnus, I'm scared. Aria is scaring me!"
