Hank's eyes betrayed a flicker of nervousness and anticipation. He knew all too well that this confrontation with the Parker family survivor would determine the fate of the Jenkins family. The old man in the black robe sat silently, unmoving, like a lifeless statue. Yet, the oppressive aura radiating from him was enough to send chills down the spines of everyone in the room. Suddenly, the lights went out. A cold gust of wind swept through the room, and before Josephine could react, she felt herself being pulled into a firm embrace. The familiar scent surrounding her made her heart race. "You're here, sir?" she whispered, leaning into Cyrus's chest. Her trembling fingers reached up to trace the mask on his face. For a fleeting moment, she allowed herself to dream—if only this man were he

