162. The House That Never Let Her Go

Nova

Finally, after an eternity, I decide to step in. The gate closes behind me with a soft, final sound.

For a moment, I just stand there, my hand still hovering where the cold metal kissed my skin. The air feels thicker inside the compound, like the house is holding its breath. I half expect alarms, questions or consequences. Instead, there is only silence.

I walk up the steps slowly, my shoes loud against the stone I once ran barefoot on. The huge door ...