The Sting of Obligation

Declan drove straight to Valerie's neighborhood.

Having been to Valerie's neighborhood on two previous occasions, Declan was already familiar with the area.

After parking the car, he made his way directly to the 15th floor where Valerie resided.

The door was closed as usual.

Declan pressed the doorbell, but no one opened the door.

There was no response even after knocking on the door.

Declan didn'