The day of the planned dinner finally came, and I woke up very early to prepare before heading to the Black Mansion. I had asked Lena if she wanted to come with me, but she refused outright, insisting she would come with Sylvia instead. I did not contest it. The goal was simply to have her there, and I did not want it to become another issue between us.
After getting dressed, I headed to Grandpa's estate earlier than expected. The morning air was calm, carrying the scent of trimmed hedges and fresh flowers from the massive garden surrounding the mansion.
The estate had always carried an intimidating aura, but today it felt heavier, almost like the walls themselves were waiting for something important to happen.
