Biltmore Estate, 1907
George looked at his son with a serious expression.
"Don't forget, we have a party coming up in a couple of days. Some very important families will be attending."
"I haven't forgotten," William replied solemnly.
"William, there will be many eligible young women at the party," George continued with a sincere tone. "You never know—you might meet your future wife."
Edith gently interjected, "George, please use your time more wisely. Stop pestering our son. If something is meant to happen, it will. Now let's drop the subject—or you'll be sleeping alone tonight. Do you understand?"
"Alright, my love. I'll let it go for now," George said with a sigh.
"Thank you," Edith said warmly.
William, feeling slightly uncomfortable, spoke up. "May I be excused? I have a bit of a headache and would like to rest."
Edith looked at him with genuine concern. "Of course, dear. Go get some rest."
"Yes, you may be excused, William," George added, his tone gentle.
William offered them a sincere look. "Thank you. Good night, Father. Good night, Mother. I love you both."
"Good night, son," George replied with fatherly affection.
"Sleep well, sweetheart," Edith said with motherly tenderness.
"Thank you, Father. Mother." William nodded respectfully before leaving the room and making his way to his chambers.
---
Biltmore Estate Winery, 2021
Lyanna glanced around the lively room, taking in the festive atmosphere.
"Wow," she said, "Biltmore really knows how to throw a party."
Nayla nodded in agreement. "I know, right? I always enjoy these events. They make me feel like the company truly values its employees."
A voice chimed in, "Good evening, ladies."
"Good evening, Alexander," Lyanna said with a friendly smile. "How's your evening going?"
"Quite well, thank you. And yours? Enjoying the night?"
"I'm having a wonderful time. This party is amazing!" Lyanna said with enthusiasm.
"I agree," Nayla added. "They really outdid themselves."
"I'm glad to hear that," Alexander said with a pleased expression. He turned to Lyanna. "Would you be able to meet me tomorrow morning at the southern part of the estate—the area we toured earlier?"
"Of course," Lyanna replied thoughtfully. "What time?"
"Would nine a.m. work for you?" Alexander asked.
"That sounds perfect,"
"Great. I'll see you then. Enjoy the rest of your evening, ladies."
"You too, Alexander. See you tomorrow," Lyanna responded warmly.
"Have a good night," Nayla added with a nod.
"Thank you, Lyanna. Nayla." Alexander gave them a polite nod before walking off.
Just then, Nayla's group of friends approached.
"Nayla!" Aria called out.
"Hey, Aria! I was just about to look for you guys," Nayla replied excitedly.
"Same here. We were wondering where you went. Who's this beside you?" Aria asked curiously.
Realizing the need for introductions, Nayla smiled. "Right! Lyanna, meet my friend Aria Vaskez. She's been working at the winery for about four years. We've been friends for two now. Aria, this is Lyanna Asher. Today's her first day, and she's working in restoration with Alexander and Angela."
Lyanna extended her hand. "Pleasure to meet you, Aria."
Aria shook her hand warmly. "The pleasure's mine. Welcome to the Biltmore family."
"Thank you. It's an honor to be part of it," Lyanna beamed.
The introductions continued:
Aleyna Abrahall: "Hi, Lyanna. I work in the winery with Aria."
"Nice to meet you, Aleyna." Handshake
Isla Addicott: "I'm from the chocolate shop near the estate."
"Lovely to meet you, Isla." Handshake
...
Soon the introductions had concluded, Nayla had about eight friends so the introduction took quite a bit of time...
As soon as they were done Nayla looked around proudly. "Ladies, we have a new member—Lyanna is now officially part of the Biltmore Ladies Club!"
Lyanna blinked in surprise. "Really?"
"Yes," Nayla confirmed with a proud smile, "Welcome to the group."
"Thank you. I'm honored," Lyanna said sincerely, she had rarely been part of groups before so this really meant so much for her!
"We're honored to have you," Nayla replied with a warm smile. "Alright, ladies—let's give her the official welcome hug!"
At her words, everyone came forward and offered warm embraces.
Nayla then looked around at the group. "Shall we go join the rest of the party?"
All the women responded in unison: "Yes!"
The group continued to enjoy the evening together.
---
Later That Night
That evening, Lyanna once again dreamed of the mysterious young man she had always dreamt of.
In her dream, she stood before him and said, "Hi."
"Hi," the young man replied.
"I'm Lyanna."
"I'm William."
As soon as she heard his name her dream was cut short abrubtly...
She glanced around with a frown and couldn't help whispering to herself, "William… Why do you keep appearing in my dreams?"
---
Back in 1907
William, also dreaming, found himself face-to-face with a beautiful young woman.
"Hi," he said.
"Hi," she replied.
"I'm William."
"I'm Lyanna."
With that William also awoke with a jolt.
"Lyanna… why do you keep appearing in my dreams?" he murmured with a faint smile, he felt the whole ordeal was interesting.
---
Present Day – Biltmore Pond, Next Morning
Lyanna's phone rang, breaking the morning stillness. She picked it up.
"Hello?" she answered.
"Good morning, Lyanna," Alexander greeted.
"Good morning, Alexander. How are you today?"
"I'm doing well. How about you?"
"I'm good, thank you."
"I just wanted to let you know I'll be about twenty minutes late. I hope that's alright?"
"That's perfectly fine. I'll wait here by the pond."
"Great. See you soon."
"See you soon. Bye."
"Bye."
She slipped her phone into her backpack and admired the serene pond.
"This spot is beautiful," she murmured.
Suddenly—without warning—someone shoved her into the water.
"Ahhh!" Lyanna screamed in shock.
As she plunged into the pond, a strange energy enveloped her—and she vanished into time.
Moments later, Alexander stepped up to the edge of the water.
"You're finally going to meet him, Lyanna," he whispered. "The one you've dreamed of all these years… your one true love."