Thick crimson light streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows as Adelia made her way down the empty hallway adorned with paintings of past leaders of the Augustus family.
All had the same expression, one filled with pride and joy which was somewhat ironic considering what they all faced in their lifetime.
Perhaps these paintings were drawn at a time before they left to assume their responsibilities.
Arriving at the latest painting to adorn these time-worn walls, Adelia found herself pausing for a moment as her eyes drifted to the image painted on it.
The man it depicted was familiar and yet just as unfamiliar.
The smile he held reminded her of times past when all was well.
It reminded her of the sibling duo that were once inseparable.
It reminded her of the sibling… that she was forced to let go of.
