In the stillness of the night, the mansion lay cloaked in darkness, saved for the faint glow of the moon filtering through the curtains. The air was calm, except for the steady breathing of Camilla and Cyrus in the room.

Camila laid on her side, eyes closed but sleep elusive. Beside her Cyrus’s breathing was uneven, his body restless. Suddenly, he began to thrash violently, limbs flailing as if battling an unseen enemy.

“Cyrus,” Camilla whispered, concern lacing her voice. She reached out to touch him, hoping to rouse him from his nightmare. But as her hand made contact, Cyrus reacted instinctively, shoving her away with such force that she...