Julian's pov

By the time Niles pulls the car into the driveway, the world outside is dead quiet. I loosen my tie, running a hand through my hair as the engine goes still.

“It’s been a long night,” Niles says as he steps out. “I’ll turn in now, sir. Do you need anything before I go?”

I shake my head. “No, Niles. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight, sir.”

The door closes behind him, and suddenly I’m standing in an ocean of silence. The house feels heavier than usual, like the walls ...