The limousine glided smoothly through the rainy night, leaving the dark, muddy alleys of the slums far behind.
The family inside was a mix of quiet wonder and chattering excitement.
Elowen sat with her hands folded in her lap, her weary eyes staring out the tinted window as the city lights began to change—from dim streetlamps to brighter, more elegant glows.
Her breaths were slow and deep, like she was trying to take in the moment without letting it overwhelm her.
[This car... It's like a dream. But dreams can end. Is this real, or will we wake up back in that tiny house?]
Darius, the oldest brother, leaned back in the soft leather seat, his broad shoulders relaxing for the first time in what felt like years.
He crossed his arms, his protective nature making him glance at Seraphina every few seconds.
His breaths were steady, but his mind raced. "Sis, how far is this place?" he asked, his voice gruff but curious, like a guard checking the path ahead.
Seraphina, with Liora still on her lap, smiled softly.
The little girl was playing with the edge of Seraphina's blouse, her innocent eyes wide and full of trust.
Liora's breaths were light and quick, full of childlike joy. "Not far now," Seraphina replied, her voice calm and reassuring.
She stroked Liora's hair gently, the motion lovely and tender, like a mother comforting her child in a story where everything turns out right.
Elias, the middle brother, was peering at the mini-fridge again, his clever mind always looking for details.
He adjusted his old glasses, his breath short with curiosity.
"This thing has everything. Chilled water, snacks... even little chocolates. How does it work?" He opened it once more, pulling out a candy bar and unwrapping it slowly, as if studying it.
Finnian, the youngest brother, laughed cheerfully, his adventurous spirit lighting up the car.
He was munching on a sandwich, his breath fast with excitement. "Who cares how? It's awesome! Like we're in one of those fancy stories where the poor kid finds a magic lamp!"
Liora giggled, her tiny hands clapping. "Magic car!" Her innocence made everyone smile, even Darius, who let out a rare chuckle.
Seraphina watched them all, her big blue eyes soft but with a hint of distance.
[They're opening up. Good. But they don't know the full story yet—the system, the assassin's life. One step at a time.]
She pulled out her phone and texted Sasha, her other maid: "Nightwear only for the family. Silk sets, sizes: Mom medium, brothers large and medium, little one small. Fluffy robes, too. Have them ready."
Sasha replied quickly: "On it, boss. Everything is soft and warm. Heater's on full."
The car turned onto a private road, the rain pattering on the roof like a soft drum.
Harlan's voice came over the intercom, steady and professional. "Arriving now, Miss Voss."
The family leaned forward, breaths holding as the gates came into view.
The gates were tall and wrought iron, with intricate designs of vines and flowers that looked like they were from a fairy tale.
As the limo approached, they swung open slowly, silently, like they were welcoming royalty.
The driveway was long and curving, paved with smooth stones that crunched softly under the tyres.
Rain glistened on the path, making it shimmer under the outdoor lights that lined the way.
Elowen's breath caught in her throat. She pressed a hand to the window, her eyes wide.
"Look at that... It's like a palace from those old books I used to read to you kids."
Her voice was whispery, full of awe, her weary personality showing through in the way she leaned forward, like she was afraid it would vanish if she blinked.