The biting wind howled outside the window, its chill seeping through the nearly bare branches of the tall plane trees lining the street.
A thin layer of frost clung to the twigs in the early morning, making the air damp and piercingly cold.
Inside, the heating was turned up high.
The entire villa complex enjoyed round-the-clock central heating, ensuring every room remained cozy and warm—a stark contrast to the freezing world beyond the walls.
"Hey, Sarah, are you on your way? I'm heading out soon."
Beauty was getting dressed while talking to Sarah on the phone.
They had made plans to visit the orphanage together, intending to first raid the mall for supplies before delivering warmth to the children.
Sarah sounded cheerful on the phone, reminding Beauty not to rush and to bundle up—it was bitterly cold outside.
Beauty cracked the window open briefly, letting the icy wind sting her face before quickly shutting it again.
"Sarah, I'm about to leave.
