CHAPTER SIXTY EIGHT – FAMILY SECRETS

The grandfather clock in the hallway chimed three times, its resonant bongs echoing through the cavernous von Steiner mansion. Cassie lay awake in her bed, the ornate canopy curtains bathing her in silky shadows as her mind raced. What had Florian meant by his whispered suggestion? That the von Steiner family secrets were worth risking to uncover? She still flushed at the memory of his lips brushing her ear, his scented breath caressing her skin... A faint thump came from somewhere deep in the mansion's underbelly, snapping Cassie from her reverie. She froze, straining her ears. There it was again - a muffled thud, like something heavy being dropped or dragged. Moving on instinct, she slipped from her bed and crept to the door, easing it open a crack. The hallway beyond lay deserted and still, shadows pooling in the corners and alcoves. The thudding noise came again, more distinct this time. It seemed to emanate from below, underscoring the vast mansion. Cassie's heart pounded, her