Shall We Get Started?

The soft sound of the doorbell startled her out of her thoughts. She hurried toward the door, half-expecting to see Steffan leaning against the doorframe with a grin. But when she opened the door, her breath caught in her throat.

Two women stood before her, each impeccably dressed in tailored suits. They carried themselves with the poised efficiency of professionals, the kind who move through life with a purpose.

Behind them was a man, tall and lean, holding what looked like a garment bag draped over one arm. 

The man's  sharp features softened slightly when he saw Lauren's surprised expression. But it was the black luxury sedan parked at the curb with its engine quietly idling, that really threw her off. She hadn't expected any of this.

The woman on the left, a brunette with piercing blue eyes, was the first to speak. "Miss Holmes?" Her tone was polished but friendly.