Lucien stirred as a gentle nudge roused him from slumber. His senses, sluggish from rest, began to realign as the familiar scent of lavender and warm linen washed over him. Slowly, his eyelids lifted, revealing the soft, warm glow of a lantern-lit interior. The carriage was cloaked in the velvety hush of night, shadows dancing across the polished wood and golden embroidery that decorated its luxurious interior. Hovering gently above him was a familiar face.
"Young Master... we're here," Marie said softly, her voice like a breeze brushing against his thoughts. Her shoulder-length brown hair fell slightly to one side as she leaned forward, her brown eyes warm and filled with affection, and a faint blush colored her cheeks.
Lucien blinked slowly. His lips parted slightly, but before he could form a question, Marie beat him to it.
