The following morning, the atmosphere inside the mansion was far quieter than usual.
Outside, the rain had finally stopped. Only droplets continued to fall from the roof and tree branches, creating a rhythmic sound that echoed through the mansion.
Inside the dining room, breakfast had already been served.
Freshly baked bread, scrambled eggs, warm soup, grilled sausages, and a variety of fruits covered the long dining table. The scent of coffee lingered pleasantly in the room, blending with the aroma of butter and toasted bread.
Carl sat at the head of the table with a newspaper folded beside his plate while Yulia held a cup of tea between both hands.
The television mounted against the wall reported the morning news, serving as little more than background noise while everyone began eating.
[—We had to interrupt our scheduled broadcast with breaking news.] The anchor's calm voice caused Carl to lift his gaze toward the television.
