CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY THREE – NEW HOUSE RULES

The air hung heavy with the scent of freshly brewed tea and unspoken tension. Richard paced the library, casting nervous glances towards the door every few seconds. Charlotte, perched on the edge of a plush armchair, gnawed on her bottom lip, her fingers drumming a frantic rhythm on the worn armrest. "This is madness," Richard muttered, stopping abruptly. "Lady Griffith practically has me under house arrest." Charlotte offered a wry smile. "Well, you did disobey a direct order from the queen bee of this hive." Richard threw his head back in frustration. "It's ridiculous! We haven't done anything wrong. We just…" his voice trailed off, a blush creeping up his neck. Charlotte's smile softened. "We just…" she echoed, reaching out and taking his hand. It was warm and reassuring, a lifeline in a sea of uncertainty. Suddenly, a loud clatter from the hallway shattered the fragile calm. Mrs. Higgins, the stern head maid, burst into the room, her face a mask of disapproval. "Mr. Richard!