The butler nodded and guided Deirdre to the study's door. Gathering her emotions, she pushed it open.

Arthur's attention was on some documents, but the door's creak made him look up. He met Deirdre's gaze, causing a subtle flicker of surprise and uncertainty in his eyes.

"Deirdre..." He set aside the file. "Did you just wake up? Hungry? I'll have the kitchen prepare something."

Deirdre shook her head, closing the door gently.

"Not hungry. I came to talk."

"Everything okay?" Concern colored Arthur's expression. Though he seemed worried she might leave, he tried to hide it. "Go ahead. I'm with you."

Deirdre found his reaction slightly amusing. "I'm not leaving."

A spark returned to Arthur's eyes. "Then what's up?"

As Deirdre grew more serious, she said, "I came to Southedge not just for a visit. I want to know if my mother left something with you before she passed. Something significant."

"Left something?" Arthur was puzzled. "She left several things. Which one do you mean?"

De