The sun was setting when the car finally rolled into the compound of Linet's family home. The gates closed behind them with a finality that sent chills down Linet's spine—even in her unconscious state, her body twitched as if it sensed the doom that awaited.
Francis stepped out of the car first, his suit unruffled, his expression composed. A few elders and family members stood by the entrance, their faces a mix of relief and tension. Linet's father pushed through the crowd.
"Is she alright?" he asked, glancing at Linet slumped in the back seat.
"She's fine," Francis answered, voice cool. "Just sleeping. I had to calm her down."
The father said nothing more, only gave a slight nod before signaling to two older women waiting by the door.
"Take her to the back room. Don't let
