A faint smile graced his lips as he pushed open the front door. When Shawn entered, the house was enveloped in silence, and the lounge bathed in dim light. "She must have retired to bed," he surmised, feeling a subtle pang of disappointment.

He sighed, fatigue pressing upon him as he made to ascend the stairs. Yet, just as he approached the staircase, his steps faltered. He turned to the side and spotted a frail figure curled up on the couch. His eyes narrowed as he recognized the Little One.

Why was she there? He moved closer to the couch, his tall frame looming over her as he observed her...