We arrive at Lily’s, and I retrieve the spare key from under the carpet, allowing Beatrice and I access to her house. As we step inside, the strong scent of herbs overwhelms me, stirring a deep sense of concern for her well-being.

"Lily?" I call out, my voice echoing through the stillness. "It's Amelia."

A muffled response drifts down from the upper floor, and I turn to Beatrice with a pleading look. "Would you mind waiting here while I go up and see her?" I ask, my tone laced with a ...