'He was a Marquess?'
As Aria exited the sleek Mercedes-Benz, driven by a woman with short hair and striking golden eyes, she glanced toward the hotel standing before her.
Her mind wandered back to the conversations she had shared with Billie, the car's driver, who had revealed that the man she always thought was Professor Aven was, in fact, Marquess Avendial Croceaus.
"Hm, follow me," Billie said tersely.
With one of her hands bandaged, she moved forward, clearly feeling discomfort, yet she showed no sign of mercy.
Tasked by her so-called cousin, who had little regard for her well-being, she was ordered to escort Aria to the hotel.
Rubbing her head in frustration, she struggled with the itch beneath the bandage.
Despite her short, tomboyish hairstyle, Billie carried an attractiveness that drew the gazes of several guests, who also glanced at Aria as she followed behind.