390 Results Not Helping

(Winona)

Just after lunch on Monday, Klara is on the cottage doorstep. The kids are in lessons at the estate and I’m reading through all the future suggestions Jayden emailed me on the front porch.

She’s balancing a large, rustic basket on her arm. She smiles warmly, setting it down on the wooden table with a soft thud. The assortment of jars, oils, and fresh produce inside exudes an earthy and comforting scent.

“Some of the best we have—jams, honey, cheeses, and some of my own oils and remedies. Viktor mentioned Jayden wanted to thank me for the welcome basket I sent you, so I thought there better be one here when he got back.”

“It’s perfect,” I say, touching a jar of dark amber honey. “Thank you, Klara.”

She inclines her head, but I notice her gaze flicker briefly to her handbag, her expression turning slightly more serious.

She reaches into her bag and pulls out a small envelope, setting it on the table between us. My heart starts pounding as I look at it, dreading what it might co