Chapter 57

As we arrived at our home in Claybourne, the midnight hour enveloped us, casting a shadow of darkness upon the surroundings. With only the dim light from my phone's flashlight, I fumbled to insert the key into the keyhole. The door creaked open as I pushed it, and I hastily switched on the lights upon entering, eager to illuminate the space and banish the eerie atmosphere.

"Go ahead and get some sleep," Asher suggested, his voice laced with weariness.

But a nagging curiosity overcame me, and I couldn't resist seeking some answers. "Can you tell me where you're going?" I inquired, hoping for a glimpse into his thoughts. When he didn't immediately respond, I probed further, concerned for his well-being. "Are you exhausted from the long drive?"

"Yeah, I'll just have a quick smoke, and then I'll join you," he replied, his words laden with a hint of distraction.

"Okay," I acquiesced, a