~AXEL~
The morning light filtered through my bedroom curtains, but I'd been awake for hours already. Today was different, as it marked the twentieth year since my parents died.
I stared at the ceiling, letting the familiar weight of grief settle over me like a heavy blanket. Every year, this day brought back the same crushing combination of sadness and rage that never seemed to diminish with time.
"Good morning, sir," Martha's voice came through the door along with her gentle knock. "Breakfast is ready."
"Give all the staff the day off, Martha," I called back. "Including yourself. Take a paid day."
"Sir? Are you sure? What about meals and…"
"I'm sure. Go home to your family. That's an order."
I heard her footsteps retreat down the hallway, followed by muffled conversations as she informed the other staff members. Soon, the house fell into the kind of silence I needed today.
