LILITH

When Uncle Theo’s name lit up my screen, I paused mid-task and held up the phone.

For a moment, I hesitated, thinking that it might be my parents again. It wouldn’t be the first time they borrowed his phone to get through to me.

But then I glanced at the clock. At this hour, they should already be at work.

With that in mind, I finally swiped to answer. But I didn't rush to speak, ready to hang up if I heard the wrong voice.

“Miss Lilith.”

Relief loosened my shoulders. Not them.

My tone softened instantly. “Uncle Theo.”

“Have you settled into your new place properly? What about...