As soon as we pulled into the compound, my little brother hurried out of the house, his face lighting up the moment he spotted Ethan.
“Mr. Ethan!” he called excitedly. “You’re here again!”
Ethan smiled. “How are you feeling, champ?”
“I’m doing much better now. The doctor said I’m recovering really well.”
“I’m happy to hear that.”
A moment later, my mother stepped out onto the veranda.
“Mr. Ethan,” she said with a courteous smile. “Welcome. Please, come inside.”
Before we could enter, my father walked out of the living room and stopped at the doorway. His expression was composed but unmistakably serious.
“Mr. Ethan,” he began, “you’re welcome to my home. However, before you come in, there are a few things I need to say.”
The smile on Ethan’s face faded as he gave my father his full
