OBSESSION

PROLOGUE

"Five lives were lost, and the count of those forced to leave due to grave injuries now stands at twenty," Ashton grimly reported, his voice heavy with sorrow and concern.

"Ah, but the tally continues to climb, Ashton," his brother, Xian, interjected, a hint of amusement coloring his words.

Ashton couldn't hide the worry etched on his face as he observed his sibling's deteriorating condition.

"It appears we may need to recruit another one and offer higher wages to attract replacements," Xian suggested, hoping to address the escalating crisis.

"Indeed, that may be worth considering, Xian," his brother agreed casually.

"Or perhaps we should seek out a dedicated caretaker specifically for him, as it seems no one is willing to attend to his needs," Xian proposed, rising from his seat to indulge in a cigarette break. "In our hectic lives, we simply can't spare the time to care for that old man! Ah well, duty calls! My girls are waiting for me."

Ashton shook his head in dismay at his brother's callous attitude, running a hand through his hair as he pondered a solution to their predicament.

He sighed heavily as he heard his brother's raucous laughter echoing from his chamber.

Retrieving a syringe from the pocket of his pristine lab coat, Ashton murmured in frustration, "Looks like it's time for another dose. Curse his stubborn nature!" With a heavy heart, he began the ascent up the stairs, steeling himself for the challenging task ahead.