Lilian woke up to realize that she had fallen asleep in the sitting room rather than her bedroom. Dante was sleeping in a armchair with his phone still in his hand, his head tilted slightly to the side.
Adrian was stretched along the opposite couch with one arm draped over his eyes to block the light. Lucien had claimed the floor, somehow managing to look comfortable with only a decorative pillow under his head.
They had been planning late into the night, discussing strategies to face the council, enhancing the security at the estate, and the contingencies for Margaret's presence. At some point exhaustion had claimed them all right where they sat.
A movement in the hallway drew Lilian's attention. Mrs. Hemsworth appeared, carrying a tray with coffee and fresh pastries. She took in the scene when she saw the four of them scattered across the room. A faint smile touched her lips.
