The heavy oaken door of the looming gothic mansion creaked open slowly, revealing a dimly lit foyer strewn with dust and cobwebs. “You are expected,” rasped the ancient butler standing in the portal, his stony features icily unmoved by the sight of the beautiful woman standing before him. Green eyes flashed as she reciprocated her dry welcome with a dazzling smile. “I’m so glad,” she replied, her voice lush with tones of poise and experience, “I’ve been so looking forward to meeting the Count.” Read more…