She held out a small tray of crystal glasses filled with ice water and sparkling water.

“Thank you, Natalie,” I said, taking a glass.

Natalie folded her arms tightly, tilted her head a little, and looked at me with open curiosity.

“Ethan told me you were coming alone, but I’m so glad you got here safely,” she said.

She had no idea four boys were standing just behind the stone pillar at the foyer entrance.

“The roads were clear enough,” I said.

“I want to thank you for coming,” Natalie said in her direct way.