Alexander's POV

The day started like most others since Dad passed— it was quiet, slow, heavy. I took my coffee onto the back porch, letting the mug warm my hands while the air clung to the silence.

There were no more instructions. No more knowing glances. No more sudden laughter at things only he would find funny.

I was more than lonely, despite the fact nobody was talking about it, I felt like an outcast in the house. My father, who was the reason that brought me to the house was ...