The silence in the mansion was suffocating, broken only by the occasional crackle of the fireplace. Annabelle sat curled on the sofa, beside the window, her arms wrapped tightly around her knees. Her eyes were red-rimmed, though she refused to let any more tears fall. Not now. Not when her every thought felt like it was ripping her apart from the inside.
The continuous sound of voices outside broke her trance, pulling her attention toward the entrance hall. Daisy’s shrill tone was unmistakable, her words clipped and sharp.
“I said you can’t go in!” Daisy hissed.
Annabelle straightened slightly, her heart racing as another voice rang out—one that she recognized instantly.
“I’m not leaving until I see her,” Flavia said firmly, her voice unwavering.
Annabelle’s chest tightened. She scram
