Locked rooms
The lower level was darker, lined with several closed doors. Rose paused at one with a tarnished handle. “Can we see inside?” she asked, curiosity overriding her hesitation. Dalton’s smile turned regretful. “Sadly, I don’t have the keys with me. Misplaced long ago.” He waved it off and moved ahead quickly, as though hoping they wouldn’t linger. “Still, there’s plenty to admire,” he added. His words sounded polished, rehearsed—like someone who had practiced excuses many times.
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