Winn arrived at his family estate the next day, in time for dinner. The Kane estate was a statement. Acres of manicured lawns stretched into the horizon, lined with century-old oaks.
The mansion itself was magnificent, its marble steps and towering pillars intimidating in daylight, but softer now, bathed in the amber glow of evening lamps. As his car pulled into the compound, the butler rushed forward, taking his bag, opening doors.
As soon as his mother saw him, her eyes lit up with unfiltered excitement. "Oh, Winn, my baby!" she exclaimed, sweeping across the foyer. She wrapped him in a hug that was surprisingly strong for a woman her age.
"How are you doing, Mum?" Winn asked, softening despite himself.
"I am better now that you are here." She smiled up at him, her diamond earrings glittering. Her hands lingered on his shoulders, as if making sure he was really there. "You grow older and then you abandon me," she scolded lightly.
