Life gradually returned to its steady rhythm. The clamor of the epidemic faded into memory, tucked away like a dream half-remembered. Streets buzzed again with markets, music, and children's laughter, as if the shadows of illness had never crept over the land.
In her study, Serena sat by the window, the summer sun pouring in through gauzy curtains. Her pen moved with steady strokes across thick stacks of parchment—her new novel taking shape. It had been months since the crisis, and now, another year neared its close. A part of her wanted to leave it all behind, but another part insisted on preserving the truth, if only through fiction. She had included the tale of the epidemic and the elderberry cure, veiled in allegory yet rich with honesty.
Outside her study, the manor bustled with familiar sounds. Lucia had taken once more to her travels, wandering the world with restless curiosity. Lucas remained in his study, bent over papers and maps, ever diligent in his duties.
In the kitchen, Rika chatted animatedly about how the Dowager Duchess had saved countless lives, her words filled with admiration. Dyanne, quiet as ever, stood beside her, expression unreadable, but she nodded—silent agreement behind stoic eyes.
Serena placed her pen down and stretched. The pages were thick now, nearly forming the spine of a full book. Rising from her chair, she walked toward the shelf, slid out a familiar book, and flopped gently onto the nearby sofa. The air was still, the house warm with summer peace.
As she read, her eyes flicked absently toward the window where the sun painted gold across the marble tiles. And then—like a spark catching fire—a new idea blossomed in her mind.
A business. Something that could make profit and last longer. Serena sat up slowly, the book falling shut on her lap. Her eyes gleamed—not with ambition, but with purpose.
Serena rang the bell lightly, the soft chime echoing through the quiet study. Moments later, Aiden burst in, slightly out of breath, his hair tousled and temples glistening with sweat.
She looked up, a playful smile touching her lips. "Aiden," she said calmly, "I've thought of starting a business. Would you be kind enough to help me?"
Aiden blinked, caught off guard. "A business, my lady?" he repeated, his voice laced with uncertainty. "Of course… I will."
"Good," Serena replied with a nod, her tone warm and calm. "Then prepare the carriage. We're going to the real estate office."
Without another word, she dismissed him with a small wave, already going back to the book. The moment he left, the room returned to silence and her mind split between stories and strategies.
The bell above the door gave a tired jingle as Serena stepped into the real estate office. The air smelled faintly of old parchment.
Behind the counter, a weary-looking agent lifted his head, suppressing a yawn.
"Welcome, my lady," he greeted with a practiced bow. "What can I help you with today? A house? Some land? Or perhaps… something else?"
Serena walked in gracefully and took a seat at the table.
"I want you to bring me the finest location," she said, folding her hands before her. "A place where people gather. Somewhere busy. Lively. Visible."
The agent blinked, now fully awake. He leaned forward, interest piqued. "You're looking to set up a store, then?"
"Yes," Serena replied simply, her eyes gleaming.