Van gently took her hand, leading her through the spacious living room and pushing open the glass doors to the backyard.

The backyard was also expansive, showcasing natural landscapes that ranged from wild meadows to rocky paths and dense woods. A winding stream cut through the garden, and as evening mist thickened, a faint blue haze lingered over the water. A canoe rested quietly on the shore.

Moonlight bathed the scene, and from one corner of the yard, a small horse bounded ...