The Start

Arthur slowly and quietly unlocked the door to their basement.

Stepping inside, his footsteps were soft against the worn floorboards.

The basement was filled with the faint sound of Charlotte's breathing as she lay asleep. Besides her was the heater, which was still turned on.

He paused, taking a moment to watch her face which was relaxed and peaceful for once despite their horrible living conditions.

"It's good she's resting. Let her sleep these days off," he thought, his chest tightening slightly.

"Maybe soon, she'll wake up to something better."

As he continued to watch her he realised something important. Pulling his phone out from his pocket he glanced at the time making a mental note.

6:05 pm

"No difference at all," he noted with confusion on his face.

The mission had taken him, twenty-four hours in that other world. Yet here, no time had passed.