Chapter 73

Seeing Adrian agree so readily, Andrew was just as decisive. "Well then, let's deal with it tomorrow. I've got some preparation to do for tonight." "If there's anything you need, Mr. Hughes, just let me know. I'll have someone buy them right away," Adrian offered, knowing there'd be a need for extra materials. Andrew handed Adrian a list and scheduled a meeting for 8:00 am the next day. After they said their goodbyes, everyone went their own way. Andrew didn't go to Thompson Villa. Instead, he went straight back to Starlight Grove. As Andrew stepped through the door, he was met with a noxious smell. The living room was shrouded in smoke. Just as he started to wonder if there was a fire, a figure appeared through the haze. "You're back!" Elise coughed, hurrying over to Andrew while holding her nose. Her once lovely face was now marked with streaks of ash and tears, giving her a disheveled appearance. Before Andrew could even ask, Elise, looking guilty, said with her head down, "