Nathaniel went to the memorial room at the estate, where his mother's ashes were placed. He lit scented sticks in front of the memorial slab and knelt before the altar, his head bowed in front of the only person in the world to whom he would ever lower his head.
"Mother, I know I haven't been a good son by leaving you in this place all these years, letting you see that disgusting man every day, even after your death. But not anymore. I am free from him now, and I can take you away. I'll make sure you rest in a peaceful place where he will never be able to reach you. Just bear with it for a little while longer, alright? There's something I need to do before we leave this place."
He stayed there quietly for a while before leaving, his gaze filled with determination.
