Daniel walked through the grand hallway of the sprawling estate, his sharp eyes lingered on every detail—the marble floors, the intricate molding, the understated elegance. The realtor continued her enthusiastic monologue, but he tuned her out, his thoughts elsewhere. He paused in front of a set of floor-to-ceiling windows that framed a view of manicured gardens bathed in the soft glow of the afternoon sun.

With his hands in his pockets, he turned slightly toward his wife, who stood a few feet behind, still absorbing the grandeur of the place. His voice was low, controlled, and just a shade warmer than usual—something you’d noticed since your wedding.

“I’m pretty sure we were searching for something practical and this doesn’t feel like it.”