The study was a sanctuary of shadows and silence, lit only by the flickering glow of a single candle. True, she could use the overhead lights, but nothing was more soothing than the shadow patterns dancing over the walls, decorating her bookcases of trinkets and leatherbound journals with intricate lace designs. In the centre of the room, she sat at an ornate desk, once a grand spectacle now patchworked with fixings of varying successes. She placed the letter to the side as she settled into her routine.

As his gaze fell upon the bed, he held back a gasp. No matter how long it had been he was still not used to seeing these sights. 

Raduriel paused at the edge of the park pond to view the stars reflected in the water when a small hand wound its way into theirs. The small figure tugged and began to whisper, panic lacing the small figure’s words.

You wonder why I stare.

Empty heart

A door slams

A groan of wood echoes behind you. A shuffle. Silence. You steady your breath and continue to creep. All you hear is the patter of rain and the occasional scuff of your worn trainer. It’s too quiet. Or not too quiet. There's something wrong with the silence. Just something…

I’m not jumping as much at closing doors anymore.