The early morning sun barely peeked over the horizon when Thomas Winters stirred awake.

The mansion was silent, save for the occasional soft footsteps of the house staff preparing for the day.

He sat up in bed, running a hand through his graying hair, his mind already set on what needed to be done.

He had no time to waste.

Sliding out of bed, he moved swiftly, dressing in a crisp black suit, his usual choice when he needed to handle something important.

He adjusted his cufflinks, buttoned ...