Hannah sighed as she left the office after another grueling late shift. Her manager had asked her to stay behind to handle the company’s financial transactions. As the last accountant left the building, Hannah was left alone to tackle the remaining work. She was exhausted but knew better than to complain.

Arriving at her porch, the garage door opened automatically. She parked her car inside and locked the garage door, ensuring no one could intrude. The house was dark, save for a dim light coming from the living room.

She raised an eyebrow, curious if her step-daughter was still awake at this hour. Walking into the living room, she found the big screen on. Her step-daughter sat on the sofa, a blanket draped over her shoulders, and a bowl of chips in her hands, engrossed in a horror movie.

A small, weary smile formed on Hannah’s lips. She approached her step-daughter, gently asking why she was still awake at this late hour.

“Sweetheart, why are you still up? It's late,” she said softly, trying not to startle her.

Goodness, she looks so engrossed in that movie. She should be in bed by now... It’s a school night, after all.