"I've invited a companion to dinner tonight," Lady Rowena announced as she entered the sitting room where I was resting with a book.
I looked up, noting the unusual gleam in her eyes. Lady Rowena had been more subdued since Annelise's dramatic departure from our household yesterday. This sudden brightness piqued my curiosity.
"A companion?" I asked, marking my place and setting the book aside.
"Yes," she said, smoothing her already immaculate dress. "An old acquaintance who's returned to Lockwood on business. I believe you'll find him quite... interesting."
There was something in her tone—a hint of mischief that reminded me of her son. Though Lady Rowena and I had reached an understanding in recent months, I still approached her schemes with caution.
"Does Alaric know about this dinner guest?" I asked.
A small smile played at her lips. "Not yet. But I'm sure he'll manage."
