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𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐝𝐚𝐰𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲, marking the beginning of Valentina's new chapter. Thomas had secured her a modest loft just a few streets from Shelby Limited's main office, a step into a life that felt uncertain.
Inside, the loft resembled a battlefield—walls scuffed, furniture askew—a space yearning for a touch of warmth. But what was the point of renovations when her instincts whispered that she wouldn't linger here long? Thomas had insisted that staying in Watery Lane was safer than venturing further afield, but safety felt more like a cage than a sanctuary.
Her thoughts drifted to Ada. She hadn't gotten her number and could scarcely recall the direction to her home, yet the desire for companionship tugged at her. A simple cup of tea, a chance to share stories—it was a comforting thought. With a heavy sigh, she rose, slipping into a vibrant purple dress that would slice through the dreary hues of Small Heath like a beacon.
With a stylish hat perched atop her head and a purse clasped in her hand, she stepped onto the street. Eyes flicked in her direction, whispers darted through the air: a new member working with the Shelby family was walking among them, a figure of intrigue and allure.
She held her head high, confidence coursing through her as she approached the door to the office. Just as her hand reached for the handle, it swung open, revealing a woman with fiery curls and an undeniable presence.
Polly Gray appraised her with a piercing gaze. "I haven't seen you around here," she noted, an eyebrow arching as she scrutinized the newcomer.
Polly had already received news from Arthur and John about the woman Thomas had brought in from London.
"Quite correct, ma'am. I'm new here," Valentina replied, keeping her tone respectful and her composure steady.
Polly's hand remained on the door, blocking the entry just enough to prolong the exchange. "And what's your business with the Shelbys?" she asked, her gaze narrowing slightly, as if assessing more than just Valentina's words.
"Mr. Shelby hired me as his new secretary," Valentina stated, her poise unwavering in the face of scrutiny.
Polly's eyes lingered on her for a moment longer before nodding, seemingly satisfied for now. She opened the door wider, but the air between them thickened with unspoken understanding. "I'm Valentina," she offered, extending her hand in a gesture that was part introduction, part challenge—an acknowledgment that she wasn't here to cower.
"So I've heard. I'm Polly Gray, aunt to those boys," she replied, accepting Valentina's hand. Had she not mentioned her familial ties, Valentina might have mistaken her for their mother. Polly radiated a warmth and authority that struck a chord deep within, stirring memories of her own mother.
