Chapter 9. Decision

The day was not yet fully bright when Elice opened the door to her home. The atmosphere inside felt quiet, but far from peaceful. Elice could sense it clearly.

Since that day happened, for some reason, Elice knew that the atmosphere at home had changed. The peace that once existed had vanished, replaced by a lingering grief that persisted even as the days passed.

Walking in and closing the door gently behind her back, Elice made her way through the dark living room. However, she could still see the picture displayed on the wall. A photograph capturing the happiness of Elice with her parents, Wilda Russell and Peter McLean.

Not continuing her steps immediately, Elice found her feet stopped right beneath the happy portrait. Her hand lifted, attempting to touch the photo but had to settle with feeling its frame.

Elice bit her lower lip, realizing that after Peter's departure, she almost failed to keep Wilda's smile from wilting. No longer did her mother experie