Anthony was startled by the second voice in his study.
Other than the cleaning lady, no one had the permission to enter this room. Even she only came when he was out of the house. That was the strict rule he had imposed himself. This study was his sanctuary… a place where he could reflect, read, and work in solitude. His personal thoughts remained behind this door, and he guarded them fiercely. When he was reading or writing, even the faintest presence nearby would disrupt his concentration.
Though surprised and admittedly unsettled by the sudden presence, Anthony managed to keep his composure. There, seated casually in one of the armchairs across from him, was a figure dressed head to toe in black.
"Who are you?" Anthony asked, voice calm but tinged with tension.
Although his voice quivered slightly at the end, it was remarkable that he hadn't screamed or raised an alarm.
