The elevator's slow ascent to the penthouse heightened Joana's apprehension. Upon its eventual opening with a ding, she stepped into the foyer, her heart pounding in her chest.
Amidst the quiet, she heard giggling.
"Where's Michaela?" Elijah's voice rang out. Contrary to his usual cold and distant demeanor, it carried a warmth and playfulness. "I hope Michaela isn't hiding behind the curtains!"
Quietly, Joana approached the living room to witness Elijah prowling around like a character from a cartoon, while Michaela's tiny feet peeked out from beneath the living room curtains, her delightful giggles filling the air like the tinkling of wind chimes.
"Hm..." Elijah theatrically sniffed the air, unaware of Joana's presence. "I believe I detect a little girl concealed somewhere nearby, and
