The fluorescent lights in the Mercer mansion's main hall were harsh, making everything feel razor-sharp and intense.

Tessa didn't greet me with her usual warmth. Instead, anxiety was written all over her face.

Ethan sat motionless, like a marble statue.

I couldn't help but notice how fragile he looked now - thinner, his hair now almost completely silver. When Ashton and I walked in, he barely acknowledged us, his expression ...