The mansion was quiet, far too quiet for such a grand space, so beautifully illuminated and meticulously arranged. It felt as if the very air was holding its breath.
And at the very center of that stillness stood Madam Espelth Zawoshky, her slender figure framed by the towering glass windows. The city lights sparked far below, yet none could soften the steely resolve etched on her face.
She had been waiting for her son.
Waiting for Aldrich Kim Zawoshky to finally come home.
Her arms were crossed, her breathing slow and controlled, because the anger inside her had been simmering quietly, steadily, like a pot just seconds away from boiling over.
The clock ticked louder than usual.
Then.. until the last sound is final, "Tick!"
The door unlocked.
Aldrich stepped inside, his hair slight
