Emma stepped out of the taxi, her eyes taking a moment to adjust to the familiar surroundings. She stretched her arms, feeling the fatigue of her long trip slowly dissipate. The driver handed her her bags, and she paid him, her movements deliberate.
As she walked up the path to her brother's estate, she noticed the small things, the way the sunlight filtered through the trees, the sound of birds chirping, and the faint scent of blooming flowers. The house looked unchanged, its warm facade inviting her back home.
Damien opened the door, and Emma's gaze met his. She was taken aback by the weariness in his eyes, the tension in his smile. "Hey, sis! Welcome back!" He forced a smile, but it didn't quite reach his eyes.
Emma dropped her bags, her movements slow, and gave him a tight h
