In a quiet residential area, Theodore Marston, aka Simon Cladwell, stepped into his villa with slow, unhurried strides. The evening's chill followed him inside, clinging to his coat until he removed it along with his round hat.
The housekeeper set both aside as Theodore moved to the living room. When he extended his hand, the housekeeper quickly grabbed the cigar case and handed him a cigar. With practiced ease, the housekeeper lit it.
The first drag filled his chest, the exhale curling smoke into the air. His expression was complex.
On the ride back, Theodore's mind had not left the cafe. He had followed Aveline discreetly, just to observe her actions during the crisis, to measure her. And what he witnessed was not ordinary.
