The air in the house hung heavy, a palpable tension that pressed down on us when we stepped into the living room. Mom and Jelena were there, their faces etched with worry, their eyes reflecting the turmoil that had clearly gripped our home in our absence. Even the house helpers, usually bustling with their tasks, stood frozen, their expressions a mixture of confusion and fear, unsure of how to navigate this sudden shift in the familiar rhythm of our lives. I offered them a brief, dismissive glance before heading straight towards the seating area, focusing solely on Mom and Jelena.
Casper, ever the comforting presence, immediately nuzzled against Jelena, offering silent support. I drew Mom aside, my voice low as I recounted the events that had unfolded, the raid, Dad’s detention, the unse
