Chapter 62 The Stranger

Morning broke quietly over the estate, the sky painted in soft hues of gold and lavender. A crisp breeze rustled through the towering trees, carrying the distant chirping of birds. The estate grounds, usually serene, echoed with the laughter of a little boy at play. Little Charlie, barely a year and five months old, kicked his ball excitedly across the driveway, his tiny legs wobbling but determined. A shrill giggle escaped his lips as the ball rolled toward the gate—and then, past it.