20

ALEXANDER

I rushed out of the car like a madman, ignoring our long-time butler, Mr. Dubois, who came over to welcome me.

He fell into step beside me as I rushed towards the entrance of King's Manor. "Mr. Alex, you're back?"

I'd basically grown up with the man, so his use of my nickname didn't bother me. What got on my nerves was that his proximity was adding to the pressure that seemed to have built up in my head.

I turned to him sharply, never losing one step. "Where's she?"

"Who, young master?"

"My mom! Where is she?"

Mr. Dubois' expression shifted into something indescribable. "She's right inside, in her bedroom."

Without another word, I hastened my steps and entered the building.

For the past six years since I'd left home, it hadn't changed one bit. Affluence and grandeur spilled from every nook and cranny. Chairs fit for royalty, doors embellished with the finest quality materials, and halls that spread far and wide. Playing here as a child brought me so much joy. My mom would c