THE PACKAGE

The GPS beeped. I had arrived.

The house was the largest and most imposing in the development, with black iron gates that seemed to tower above me. The driveway beyond was long and winding, flanked by lush gardens that seemed to have been sculpted by a master artist. I parked my car at the front gate and stepped out, the unease within me growing stronger as I made my way over to the intercom. I pressed the button and waited for someone to answer. While the intercom continued to ring, I noticed that the gate was slightly ajar, as if someone had left it open deliberately. I hesitated for a moment, then pushed it open and stepped inside.

The grounds were even more magnificent up close, with fountains, statues, and intricate mosaics dotting the landscape. But something strange about the air made the entire estate seem to hold its breath, waiting for something to happen.

I finally reached the front door, its heavy oak panels creaking as I pushed them open. Inside, the house was even more o