The morning dawned with a golden glow, casting long shadows across the expansive grounds of Rowan Manor. Birds chirped melodiously, oblivious to the tension simmering beneath the estate's elegant facade.
Cale rose early, as always. His routine was a disciplined ritual—shaving with precision, donning his tailored uniform, and ensuring every detail of his appearance projected the utmost professionalism. Today, however, his mind was preoccupied with the mysterious figure from the previous night's gathering.
After a brisk knock on the door, one of the junior maids entered, her face flushed with urgency.
"Mr. Von Arden, Lady Althea requests your presence in the drawing room immediately."
Cale nodded. "Thank you. I'll be there shortly."
As the maid hurried away, Cale straightened his cuffs and made his way down the grand staircase. The polished wood gleamed under his steps, each footfall measured and deliberate.
Upon entering the drawing room, he found Althea pacing near the ornate fireplace. Her lavender gown swirled with each step, and her brow was furrowed in deep thought.
"Good morning, my Lady," Cale greeted with a slight bow.
She paused, her violet eyes meeting his. "Cale, something troubling has come to my attention."
He gestured for her to continue.
"One of the estate's ledgers has gone missing," she revealed, her voice tinged with frustration. "It contained sensitive information about our finances and recent transactions."
Cale's expression darkened. "Do you suspect foul play?"
Althea sighed. "I'm not sure, but given the recent rumors and last night's events, I can't dismiss the possibility."
"We need to act swiftly," Cale advised. "First, we must discreetly question the staff who had access to the ledger. Secondly, I'll review security protocols and identify any weaknesses."
Althea nodded appreciatively. "I knew I could count on you."
Later that day, Cale conducted a thorough investigation. The staff, though loyal and diligent, were understandably nervous under his scrutiny. He questioned each member with a calm but authoritative demeanor, noting any inconsistencies.
"Do you recall seeing anyone near the accounting office last night?" he asked Margaret, a senior maid.
She frowned in concentration. "Now that you mention it, there was a gentleman I didn't recognize. He claimed to be a guest, but he seemed out of place."
Cale's jaw tightened. "Did he mention his name?"
"No, sir. But he had a distinctive scar above his left eyebrow."
That detail cemented Cale's suspicion—the same man he had confronted during the gathering.
As dusk settled over the manor, Cale stood by the expansive garden terrace, his mind racing with possibilities. The theft of the ledger was a calculated move, designed to destabilize the Rowan household. But who stood to gain from such chaos?
The faint sound of footsteps drew his attention. Althea approached, her expression resolute.
"I spoke with Father," she said quietly. "He's deeply concerned about the missing ledger. He believes someone within our circle is betraying us."
Cale's eyes hardened. "If that's the case, we'll root them out."
Her gaze softened. "Your confidence is reassuring, Cale. I don't know what I would do without you."
He inclined his head. "I'll always be here to protect you and the estate, my Lady."
As they stood together, the wind rustling through the garden, Cale knew that the path ahead would be fraught with danger. But he was prepared. The shadows may have crept into Rowan Manor, but they would not prevail.
Not as long as he drew breath.