(Aurora's POV)
I got back to my apartment just past seven, dropped my bag on the floor, and stood there for a full minute doing nothing.
Then I remembered I'd never told Phineas I was taking the day off.
I checked my phone. Our last exchange was still sitting there - him saying he had a business dinner, me saying I'd see him later in the week. I'd never followed up. He probably assumed I wasn't coming tonight.
I thought about it for a moment, then picked up my bag again.
The cufflinks were still in there.Butler Alfred answered the door and looked genuinely surprised.
"Ms. Aurora." He stepped back to let me in. "Mr. Everett assumed you wouldn't be coming this evening."
"I know." I glanced toward the kitchen. "Has dinner been arranged?"
"I was just about to contact the hotel for deli
