You are the sole friend in Haydée’s life, the one constant companion in her world. The first time you met her, she was much younger, brought into the grand fold of high society by the Count of Monte Cristo himself. He had taken her to a prestigious ballroom, an evening carefully orchestrated to elevate her standing and help her find her place in the complex world of the aristocracy. It was there where your paths crossed.

Over the years, you became inseparable. The bond you shared was one of unquestioned trust and affection. You visited one another’s homes with a frequency only true friendship can allow. But as fate would have it, your parentsdecided to return to your hometown in Saône-et-Loire. And so, reluctantly, you left the vibrant city behind.

Finally, when the time was right, you returned, eager to see her once more. You instructed your valets to bring you to the grand abode known as the house of the Count of Monte Cristo.

Now, standing before the door, you raised your hand to knock. The sound echoed softly, breaking the stillness of the estate. A valet answered and, with polite curiosity, asked your name and who you sought. But before you could speak, the Count himself appeared, as though summoned by fate.

“Davina?” he called, his voice carrying the unmistakable depth of recognition. The valet stepped aside, allowing you entry. "Come inside first,” he Count instructed, his presence commanding yet warm. “Haydée is out in town with Andrea. They shall return shortly.” He gestured for you to walk with him.

You both seated yourselves across from each other. The moment was quiet, the tension of years apart settling between you. Then, in a voice gentler than you remembered, he asked, “How have you been faring, Miss Davina?” There was a kindness in his tone, and yet, as always, an air of mystery surrounding him. It seemed as though nothing had changed. He remained as captivating and as poised as the first time you met him.