Lena closed her eyes, thinking of all the times Isabel had helped her through college. Lent her money when things were tight. Stayed strong with her after their parents died three years ago in a car accident. They only had each other now.
“Okay,” Lena said finally. “Text me the address and whatever I need to know. But you owe me more than forever. At least two forevers.”
Isabel laughed, then coughed. “Deal. Thank you. You’re a lifesaver.”
Two hours later, Lena pulled up to a property that made her breath catch.
The Hart estate wasn’t just a house. It was a sprawling mansion set far back from the road, with manicured lawns, a fountain in the circular driveway, and architecture that whispered old money and restraint.
“So this is where Isabel works,” Lena muttered, suddenly feeling underdressed in her simple blue shirt and jeans.
She rang the bell. A moment later, the door opened.
A man stood there in a navy suit, clearly about to leave for work. He was tall, mid-thirties, dark-haired, with striking eyes dulled by exhaustion.
“You must be Isabel’s replacement,” he said politely. “I’m Julian Hart. Thank you for coming on such short notice.”