Silent Burden

The sprawling corridors of the Ashbourne main mansion stood eerily deserted. No servants roamed the pristine marble floors. No hushed whispers echoed through the grand, vaulted halls. The lavish estate felt more like a mausoleum than a home. Every maid, butler, and security guard had been dismissed to the lower quarters under strict, non-negotiable orders. There were to be no prying eyes tonight.