He drove to Isabelle’s apartment, the thrill of the illicit rendezvous overshadowing the remnants of guilt. Hours slipped by like sand through fingers, and as the night deepened, a sense of urgency tugged at him. He needed to return before dawn broke and Clara awoke.

Parking his car in the driveway, Daniel noticed an unfamiliar stillness surrounding his home. The air felt thick, almost oppressive. Dismissing it as paranoia, he entered through the back door, careful not to make any noise. But as he stepped into the living room, he froze, his blood turning to ice.