Chapter 80 (Distant)

The tinted car came to a slow halt in front of Jeremy’s house, its presence almost ghostly in the dimming light of the evening.

The windows remained dark, offering no glimpse of the figures inside, but as the back door swung open, Jeremy stepped out, his expression a blank mask. The vehicle pulled away with a low hum, disappearing into the distance just as quietly as it had arrived.

Standing at the front door was Sophie, his mother, her eyes immediately lighting up at the sight of her son. She had been waiting, as she always did, for him to return home. But tonight, there was something different about her stance—an unease lingering just beneath her warmth.

“Jeremy!” she called softly, moving toward him with arms wide open. Jeremy gave her a small, fleeting smile as they embraced.

“Hey, Mom,” he mumbled into her shoulder, the hug tight, but brief.

As they pulled apart, Sophie’s hands rested on his shoulders, and her eyes searched his face, sensing something was amiss.

“You’re late. I