Chapter 117: The Best Idea

Ezra stepped into the drawing-room, his eyes sweeping over the familiar space. Aubrey was already there, sitting by the window; she looked up as he entered, a smile playing on her lips. “Ezra,” she greeted, rising to her feet. “It’s been a while.” “It has,” he agreed, returning her smile as he took a seat across from her. “You’re looking well, Aubrey.” “Thank you,” she said, smoothing the skirt of her dress. “I’ve been keeping busy. And you? How have things been at the company?” Ezra sighed, leaning back in his chair. “It’s been... challenging, to say the least. But you know how it is. There’s always something to worry about.” “Of course,” Aubrey nodded, her eyes softening with what seemed to be concern. “Father has mentioned how much pressure you’ve been under lately. He wishes there was something he could do.” Ezra chuckled lightly, though it lacked humor. “Your father’s always been supportive, but this mess... It’s more than any of us expected.” Aubrey paused as if weighing h