Caution: The following content contains scenes of possible depictions of dominance. Reader discretion is advised.
...
Secretary Cade was making his way back through the mansion's backyard, the press of snow under his boots ringing in his ears. Mikael had informed him that Nicolaus wanted to see him outside, causing Cade to pick up his pace. But just as he turned the corner, he came face to face with the person who sought him out.
Nicolaus approached him; his breath heavy, puffing a plume like a cloud that dissipated quickly. He walked, appearing steady to anyone unfamiliar with him. However, to Cade, who had known and served under Nicolaus for years, he caught sight of the subtle furrow in his brows and the tension in his clenched jaw.
"Cade," Nicolaus called, his voice sounding obviously strained as he exhaled a breath. "Send a messenger to Daelan. He is to return immediately and leave his group on the mission. Inform him that his new assignment is to guard the city."
