Chapter 56
- Mrs. Carol sat in front of her dressing mirror, brushing her hair as the morning light spilled gently into the room. She was halfway through her routine when the door burst open.
- Startled, she turned sharply. "Lily! You scared me. What's wrong?"
- Lily stepped in, her expression a mix of worry and irritation. "Sorry, Mom. I just... I've been trying to reach Alex. He's not picking up. And Ethan too."