When Ray returned home, the emptiness of the house greeted him. Only a few servants moved about, tending quietly to their duties, as if sensing his need for solitude. His brothers were out, and for once, he was relieved. He didn't want anyone to see him like this. He moved quickly, hurrying to his room and closing the door behind him with a soft click. Once alone, he leaned against the door, sinking slowly to the floor, holding his weight as if grounding himself. A bitter laugh slipped from his lips, tinged with pain. "At least," he muttered, "I didn't fall this time."