Alex’s POV
The last of the family members had finally retired to bed, their muted goodbyes fading into the hall as the heavy doors clicked shut behind them. Mrs Gunner had been the last to leave. Before leaving, she gave a small smile towards Father, "Welcome home."
Father nodded.
Emma, Beth, and their families had left. The Alcatraz brothers were nowhere in sight. As everyone else left, Father asked that we, his family, remain for a short chat.
I stood awkwardly by the mantle, trying to keep my breathing even while my father sat in his chair, his fingers steepled like he was solving a puzzle no one else in the room could see.
My mother hovered nearby, her hand fluttering over his shoulder, her excitement barely contained.
“We’re rich!” she squealed suddenly, breaking the heavy silen
