The late morning sun warmed the cobblestones of the Chateau Valeré's charming central courtyard. Servants moved quietly, loading the last of the luggage into the ducal carriage.
"Nine and ten," Irene announced, ticking off the final valise on her mental checklist. Her voice, usually soft, carried a clear note of finality as she supervised the footmen securing the luggage rack. She smoothed down her dress and walked over to where Suzy and Ryan stood near the carriage steps. Ryan was gently helping Suzy put on her soft leather gloves, his fingers lingering on hers for a moment longer than strictly necessary.
"We're all done, Your Grace," Irene said with a slight curtsy to Suzy. "The last of the items have been loaded."
Suzy smiled warmly at her handmaiden. "Thank you, Irene. You've been wonderfully efficient, as always." She turned to Ryan, her expression a mixture of gentle sadness and resolve. "Well, my dear, I believe we are set to leave this little haven."
