Chapter 55: Inheritance

Brilliant morning light seeped through the cracks in the shutters, casting soft pillars of light across the dim room.

Outside the window, the CHIRP CHIRP of blue-tailed finches rang out crisp and cheerful, like a morning serenade composed exclusively to awaken the slumbering town.

Raine's eyelashes fluttered lightly as he slowly roused from a deep sleep. He sat up in bed, habitually rolling his shoulders and neck before walking toward the window facing the street.

With a CREAK, the shutters were gently pushed open.

The warm morning light instantly flooded the room, enveloping him in its warmth. A breeze carrying the fresh scent of grass and trees brushed against his face, leaving him feeling utterly refreshed.