The moment I stood in front of the grand mahogany doors, my breath got caught in my lungs. The golden emblem above the handle shimmered faintly in the afternoon sun.
The Heavens.
The name alone used to mean peace. Warmth. Safety.
I could still remember running through those halls barefoot, laughter echoing off the walls, the smell of my mother's perfume filling the air.
My father's voice would call me from the study, telling me to come for dinner. Back then, it was home.
Now, it felt like a fortress. One I was no longer welcome in.
Matteo stood beside me, the picture of calm indifference. Hands tucked neatly in his coat pockets, his black shades reflecting the mansion's white façade.
Not a single crease on his face gave away a thought. He looked like he belonged here, while I felt like an intruder.
I wanted to hit him. Right across his expressionless, too-composed face, but the moment he tilted his head toward me, my body betrayed me.
