Chapter 36: Finding Solace

The car rolled to a stop in front of the grand entrance of the Hastings estate, its headlights cutting through the dusk that had settled over the sprawling grounds. Alexander Hastings stepped out first, his movements deliberate and controlled, masking the turmoil that had been churning within him for days. He walked around the car, his eyes briefly meeting Emma’s as she opened the passenger door. Together, they turned their attention to the frail figure in the back seat. Emily sat slumped in the seat, her face pale, her eyes dull. The vibrant, joyful woman she had once been was gone, replaced by someone who barely seemed to exist. Alexander reached into the trunk, pulling out the wheelchair they had stopped to buy on the way home. It was brand new, the polished chrome gleaming under the soft light of the estate’s exterior lamps. With practiced care, Alexander and Emma helped Emily out of the car and gently lowered her into the wheelchair. Emily offered no resistance, her body limp, h