The night had fallen, and midnight was fast approaching. The clock tower struck eleven times, signalling the impending end of the day. Carl slipped into the house with quiet footsteps, closing the door behind him without a sound. He dashed for the living room, his footsteps echoing off the hard floors as he sat down on the couch.

Carl closed his eyes for a few moments, taking a deep breath as he settled in. The warmth of the house was comforting, and he let out a small sigh.