Nicole’s POV
The house felt… different the next morning.
I walked down the stairs slowly, my hand trailing along the banister, half-expecting to hear voices from the dining area. Liam’s low tone, Adrian’s dry replies. Even his mother’s measured, controlled voice.
But nothing.
The dining room was empty.
I frowned slightly and stepped further in.
The table was neatly set, breakfast already served, steam still rising faintly from the covered dishes.
Someone had been here.
“Mrs Martha?” I called softly.
She appeared from the kitchen, wiping her hands on her apron. “Good morning, dear.”
“Good morning Ma,” I replied. “Um… where is everyone?”
Martha smiled, almost relieved. “They all left very early. Something urgent came up at the office. Mr. Liam, Mr. Adrian, and their mother too.”
