5. Skipping Rocks

The darkness of the Lane Mansion enveloped us as we stepped inside, its vast corridors and grand rooms lying in silent repose. The only sign of life was usually Aiken, our butler, but given our unannounced arrival and his penchant for wine in the evenings, I suspected he was still fast asleep in his house out back.

I flicked on the lights, and the mansion came to life, each switch illuminating parts of my past. The mansion's grandeur was overwhelming, yet it felt more like a museum than a home. I made my way to the den, the familiar scent of aged wood and leather greeting me.

Flopping onto the plush couch, I watched Penelope move towards the kitchen.

From my vantage point, I observed her with a quiet admiration. Penelope was at ease in the kitchen, where she had prepared countless meals over the years. Her movements were graceful and efficient, a dance she performed with the confidence of someone who knew every inch of the room. She moved from the fridge to the counter, her hands s