The Mysterious Letter

ARYA’S POV I woke to an empty bed and a hollow feeling in my chest that I refused to acknowledge. What had I been expecting? That Giovanni would still be there, holding me like he had last night? I swallowed hard against the hurt that threatened to surface and climbed down from the massive bed, my feet hitting the cool floor. The bathroom was a welcome distraction. I turned the shower as hot as I could stand it, letting the water wash away the confusion of the night before. By the time I dried off and dressed in a simple sundress, I had almost convinced myself that I didn't care that he left without a word. Almost. A sharp knock on the door made me jump. "Miss Arya? Are you awake?" Claire burst in before I could answer, her eyes bright with barely contained excitement. She looked like she was about to explode with whatever gossip she had concocted in her head. "Good morning," I said, watching her practically vibrate with energy. "Good morning?" She closed the door behind her and lean