They headed downstairs to the dining room, both Marcus and Victoria still dressed in the same clothes they'd worn the night before. Their footsteps echoed lightly against the polished flooring as they descended the grand staircase, faint morning light casting a soft glow over the interior.
As they entered the room, the warm scent of freshly baked bread and brewed tea greeted them—alongside the ever-vigilant butler, Lance.
The man paused mid-step, his eyes briefly widening with surprise before settling into a familiar, amused smile.
"Oh, young master, you're up quite early today… I thought you'd still be at the academy at this hour," Lance remarked, a raised brow accompanying his knowing tone.
He stopped short when Victoria stepped into view behind Marcus, her presence drawing an involuntary flick of his gaze—and then an awkward smile.
"And… a pretty lady?" he added, blinking once in genuine surprise.
That line was all it took.
