The rain fell harder as Alexander’s dark car pulled up to the heavy gates of the old Vance Manor. The giant stone house sat on top of a lonely hill, surrounded by tall, leafless trees. It had been locked and empty for twenty years.
Clara looked out the window at the dark mansion. "You haven't been back here since you were a boy?"
"No," Alexander said softly, staring at the front doors. "After my mother passed away, my uncle closed this place down. It was too painful."
He turned off the engine and looked at Clara. His eyes were quiet and sad. Clara reached across the seat and wrapped her fingers around his.
"We are doing this for your mother, Alexander," she said gently. "And for my father."
Alexander nodded. "Together."
They got out of the car, holding a large flashlight, and walked
