“Part of it,” she murmured. “The rest waits in the east wing.”
She slid the papers back and shut the compartment with a decisive click. Dusk pressed against the windows, and inside, the air felt tighter, secrets multiplying in the dark.
“Will you come with me?” she asked.
Maximilian did not answer as he offered his arm. She took it, her pulse quickening beneath his sleeve.
They stepped into the corridor, doors closing behind them. Shadows stretched ahead toward the forbidden wing. Lydia felt a tremor in her legs, but also his quiet strength beside her.
At the threshold, she laid her hand on the knob.
“Ready?” he asked.
“Not at all,” she said as she tried the knob. It did not open.
"Let me."
Lydia stepped back, and Maximilian kicked thedoor. It groaned open, revealing darkness and the scent of violets.
Together, they entered.
