Chapter 17. Punishment for Disobedience

The mansion’s hallway was dark, lit only by the moonlight coming through the windows. Calla sauntered, her legs quiet against the floor. The place felt empty, almost too quiet. The air was cool, and every sound seemed louder than it should be.

How can he live like this? Alone. She hasn’t set her eyes on his elderly housekeeper since that day. Well, she’s only been here twice.

She walked slowly down the hallway, careful not to make a sound. Her eyes darted around, not sure if his study was on this floor or somewhere downstairs. The house was too big, too quiet, and she didn’t want to open the wrong door. Her hand brushed lightly against the wall as she moved, steadying herself.

Then she saw a faint, warm light leaking from under a door at the end of the hall. It wasn’t bright, just a soft glow from a lamp. Rico must be in there.

She reached the door in almost hurried steps. She took a deep breath and knocked twice. She heard him mumble from inside and she twis