It had been almost a year and a half since Lila first arrived at the Vance Estate. The seasons had turned many times, bringing rain, sunshine, wind, and now, the rains were back again. But this time, the rain didn’t bring fear or uncertainty. It just brought water for the gardens and a cozy feeling inside the big house. Life had become steady, strong, and good. The changes they had made to their business and their reputation were fully in place, and the whole city knew that the Vance family was now a force for good. They weren’t just feared anymore; they were respected, trusted, and appreciated.
One rainy afternoon, Lila was sitting in the living room near the fireplace, reading a book. The fire was crackling softly, and the sound of rain hitting the windows was calming. She was alone for
