Chapter 42

Scot drove through the quiet, tree-lined streets of the suburban neighborhood, each turn and curve bringing him closer to Jane's mother's house. The serene environment contrasted sharply with the turmoil that had defined his recent weeks. Jane’s behavior had spiraled to a level that made him uneasy, and he hoped that speaking with her mother might offer a glimmer of hope.

Arriving at the modest, yet well-kept house, Scot took a deep breath before stepping out of the car. He approached the front door and rang the bell, the sound echoing softly in the stillness of the afternoon. After a few moments, the door creaked open, revealing Jane's mother, Eleanor, standing on the threshold.

Eleanor's eyes were red-rimmed and tired, a testament to the emotional strain she had endured. Her face, once confident, now bore the marks of a woman deeply troubled. She managed a weak smile as she greeted Scot.

“Mr. Frankenstein, it’s… good to see you,” she said, her voice trembling slightly.

“Eleanor,” Sc