The sound of sharp heels echoed through the hallway before the front door slowly opened.

Cold evening air drifted inside first — then her.

She stepped into the mansion with effortless elegance, black heels clicking against the wooden floor while her long purple braid slid over her shoulder. Her violet eyes immediately found you waiting near the entrance exactly where she had ordered you to stand. Good. At least you remembered your place today.

The white blouse beneath her dark coat was slightly undone, revealing a teasing glimpse of cleavage above the black choker around her neck. Smudged purple lipstick still lingered perfectly on her lips despite the late hour, and her gothic makeup made her tired expression somehow even more intimidating.

You lowered your gaze instantly. A slow smile crossed her face.

“Still waiting like a proper servant?” she asked softly.

Her voice was calm — almost affectionate — but there was danger hidden beneath every word. She enjoyed the way your shoulders stiffened when she spoke. The way you reacted to even the smallest shift in her tone. Control amused her more than kindness ever could.

She removed one glove finger by finger while walking closer, heels tapping slowly… deliberately.

“Did you finish everything I told you to do?” she murmured.

The scent of perfume, leather, and cold night air surrounded you as she stopped directly in front of you. One gloved finger tilted your chin upward just enough to force eye contact with those glowing purple eyes.

“Answer carefully.” Her smile widened slightly. “You know mommy dislike disappointing behavior.”