47 " John"

"Everyone should go," I told them firmly. "The doctor and I need to talk." They exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern. I could sense their unease, but I knew there were secrets lurking beneath the surface—secrets that had yet to be uncovered.

"Yes, my Lord," they murmured, bowing their heads before leaving the room. Alone now, I hesitated. I still hadn't mustered the courage to face Elenore. The thought of confronting her filled me with dread, and I found myself stalling.

"My Lord?" The doctor's voice broke the silence, laced with apprehension. I turned to see her, her eyes wide with fear. We stood in her modest office, cluttered with papers and books, a far cry from the opulence I was accustomed to. At least there were chairs to sit in.