Emilia lay in bed, her mind racing with thoughts of Julian and the mysterious whispering in the courtyard. She couldn't shake the feeling that something was off about Ashwood Manor, and she couldn't help but wonder if she had made a mistake by coming here.
As the hours ticked by, Emilia found herself growing more and more restless. She tossed and turned, her eyes drifting towards the window where the moon cast an eerie glow over the gardens.
Finally, she couldn't take it anymore. Emilia threw off the covers and got out of bed, padding softly over to the window. She pushed it open, letting in a cool breeze that carried the scent of blooming flowers.
As she stood there, Emilia felt a sense of peace wash over her. The gardens were quiet and still, the only sound the distant hooting of an owl.
But then, Emilia saw a figure moving through the shadows. Her heart skipped a beat as she realized it was Julian, his eyes gleaming in the moonlight.
Emilia felt a shiver run down her spine as Julian approached the window. He stood beneath it, looking up at her with an intensity that made her feel like he could see right through her.
"Couldn't sleep?" Julian asked, his voice low and husky.
Emilia shook her head, feeling a sense of trepidation. "No," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
Julian nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. "I know the feeling," he said. "Sometimes, the darkness can be overwhelming."
Emilia felt a surge of fear at Julian's words. What did he mean by "the darkness"? And what did he know about her own dark past?
As she stood there, frozen in fear, Julian reached out and touched her hand. His fingers were cold and clammy, and Emilia felt a shiver run down her spine.
"Don't worry, Emilia," Julian whispered, his breath caressing her ear. "I'll keep you safe from the darkness."
Emilia felt a wave of unease wash over her. What did Julian mean by his words? And what did he know about her own dark secrets?
As she stood there, trapped in Julian's gaze, Emilia realized that she was in grave danger. She was trapped in Ashwood Manor with a man who seemed to be hiding secrets, and she was not sure if she would ever be able to escape.