The tension was palpable as Strax and Scarlet crossed the gates of the mansion, heading toward the main house on the grounds.
The air around them seemed heavier, as if the weight of Strax's two-week disappearance had accumulated there. The sound of their footsteps echoed through the large stone walls as they walked down the long corridor leading to the grand hall where his wives usually awaited him.
The silence between them was unusual, yet inevitable. Scarlet didn't need to say anything because her presence spoke volumes. Strax was back, but he was no longer the same.
What had happened during those two weeks of seclusion was something that needed to be confronted now.
When they reached the hall, Strax's wives were gathered, as if they had been anxiously waiting for some sign of his return.
But the truth was, they were far more worried than anything else.