The phone call

Richmond returned from work earlier than Kayla had expected. She was absorbed in a television show, but when he entered, she didn't dare meet his eyes, still shaken by their encounter a few days earlier.

Richmond noticed her retreating back as she walked towards her room. Puzzled by her lack of greeting, he reminded himself of his recent harshness. He then made his way to his own room, while Harry, his ever-reliable assistant, headed to the study.

After freshening up, Richmond joined Harry in the study. A maid soon appeared, announcing that dinner was ready. As they sat down to eat, Aiden Xander, Richmond's childhood best friend, arrived unexpectedly.

"Hey dude, it's been a while," Aiden greeted Richmond with a brotherly hug, which was warmly returned. Aiden had given Richmond space to mourn, a gesture Richmond deeply appreciated.

"Join us for dinner," Richmond invited, to which Aiden gladly agreed, expressing his hunger. The dinner passed in silence, each man lost in his own thoughts.

Afterward, they settled in the living room for a chat. That's when they heard footsteps descending the stairs. Kayla, feeling their intense gazes, kept her head down as she moved towards the dining area. Aiden gave Richmond a questioning look, but Richmond chose to remain silent.

As Kayla sat down to eat, her phone rang. The displayed number was unknown, yet she felt compelled to answer, aware of the eyes on her. A familiar voice called out, "Angel." Her heart skipped a beat, and her hands began to tremble.

"Don't you miss me, angel?" the voice inquired. Kayla was visibly distressed, sweat beading on her forehead, fear apparent in her eyes. The caller's final words, "I will come look for you again," were delivered with a chilling coldness before the call ended.

The room was thick with unspoken questions. Who was this mysterious caller? Why did Kayla react with such fear? What was the nature of their relationship? The answers to these questions remained shrouded in mystery, only to be revealed in time.