The taxi came to a sudden halt in front of a nondescript building. In the dimly lit surroundings, it appeared uninhabited. Hazel swiftly exited the taxi and entered the building. Its interior was equally dim, suggesting an absence of occupants.

She approached a specific door, knocked cautiously, and after a brief pause, it creaked open. A familiar face greeted her.

"Hazel!"

"Robert," she responded in hushed tones, a subtle smile playing on her lips. Her eyes gleamed with ...