I closed the door behind me quietly, the click echoing through the silent house. It was late, and I didn't expect anyone to be here — I hadn't told anyone I was coming, not even my Felicia. The thought of facing her now, after everything I'd learned, was too much to handle. I needed time to process and to think.
I wandered into the living room, the soft glow from the streetlights outside barely illuminating the space. I didn't bother turning on any lights. I wanted to be alone with my thoughts, the darkness a comforting shroud. My fingers trailed along the edge of the fireplace mantel, brushing against the framed photos that lined the surface. Pictures of my family — me, my father, my mother - Nora — all smiles and warmth, a portrait of perfection. But I knew better now. Those smiles hid so many secrets, so many lies.
As I stood there, lost in the past, I heard a noise. A soft knock at the front door. I froze, my heart instantly hammering in my chest.
