Chapter 14

Ethan's car came to a stop in the circular driveway, the mansion towering above him, glowing softly in the evening light. Before he could even turn off the ignition, the front door swung open.
Lily was already outside, her face lighting up the moment she spotted him. "Ethan!" She called, voice full of delight as she hurried down the steps.
He stepped out of the car just in time to catch her in a quick, enthusiastic hug. Her arms wrapped around him without hesitation. Ethan tensed instinctively, but masked it with a calm expression, returning just enough warmth to avoid seeming distant.