The grandfather clock in the hallway chimed 2:00 AM. Claire sat on the velvet living room sofa, staring at the muted television. The penthouse was massive, perfectly decorated, and entirely too quiet. Look, but don’t touch. Live in it, but definitely don't make a sound. Outside, the rain began to hit the floor-to-ceiling windows, blurring the glowing skyline of the city. The front door clicked open. Heavy footsteps echoed in the foyer, followed by the soft rustle of a jacket being taken off. Raphael walked into the living room, loosening his tie. He paused when he saw her sitting in the dark. "You're awake," he said. His voice was deep, exhausted, and completely devoid of any warmth. "And you're home," Claire replied dryly, not moving an inch. "To what do I owe the pleasure? Did the office run out of coffee, or did you just forget the way to your actual bed?" Raphael rubbed his temples, a habit he had developed over the last few years whenever she spoke for more than five seco
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