29. Pain

Lillian decided to visit her family to tell her father about the business meeting and how it went. She was eager to share the news about Katherine's appearance and the decisions made by the head council, but as she stepped into the house, she was met with an unexpected sight.

The usual bustling atmosphere of her home was replaced by a somber silence. Lillian's heart skipped a beat as she saw her family gathered in the living room, their faces etched with grief. Mr Alfred stood at the center, his eyes red-rimmed and filled with sorrow.

Lillian's heart started to beat faster as she stepped further into the house, making her way to meet Mr Alfred. "Dad, what's going on?" Lillian asked, her voice filled with concern.

Mr Alfred hesitated, his gaze faltering for a moment before he spoke. "Lillian, we need to talk," he said, his voice heavy with emotion. "It's about your mother."

Lillian's heart sank as she felt a wave of dread wash over her. She approached Mr Alfred slowly, her mind racing