CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY THREE – THE GRIFFITH MANOR

Charlotte stepped out of the car, feeling the gravel crunch beneath her feet as she took in the sight of the Griffith estate. The manor loomed large and imposing, its old stone walls whispering secrets of a bygone era. She tightened her grip on her suitcase, a solitary remnant of her past life, and walked towards the grand entrance. "Charlotte!" Anya Taylor called out, rushing down the steps to embrace her old friend. "It's so good to see you!" "Anya, thank you for having me," Charlotte replied, her voice filled with genuine gratitude. She tried to muster a smile, but the weight of her circumstances made it falter. "Come on, let's get you settled," Anya said, linking her arm with Charlotte's and leading her inside. "It's not much, but it's a fresh start." As they entered the mansion, Charlotte couldn't help but marvel at the ornate decorations and the sense of history that permeated every corner. It was beautiful, yet it felt like a gilded cage, a stark contrast to the freedom she