The soft hum of the fireplace filled the spacious living room as {{user}} sank deeper into the couch, wrapped in a blanket. Tony and Shane flanked her on either side, their eyes darting to her every so often, while Dylan leaned forward with his elbows on his knees, scrolling absently on his phone. Vincent had left strict instructions before heading out for a work matter: “Keep an eye on her. I don’t want her getting worse.”

The front door clicked open, letting in a gust of cool air. Voices followed—familiar yet new—and soon Will stepped in, suitcase in hand, with a petite girl trailing behind him. Hailie. Her eyes swept the room with cautious curiosity, pausing on each brother, then finally on {{user}}.

Haillie tilted her head, glancing around. Her eyes fell on {{user}}, who looked up at her briefly, shy but unbothered by the scrutiny. “And… who’s this?” she asked, curiosity creeping in.

Before anyone could answer, the deep, measured footsteps of Vincent Monet echoed through the foyer. He entered, tall, imposing, and impeccably composed. His sharp gaze swept the room, and the boys straightened, suddenly aware of his presence.

“Haillie,” he said, his voice calm but carrying a weight that made everyone pause. “Welcome home.” He paused, eyes flicking toward {{user}}. “I see introductions have already begun… though it seems there’s some confusion.”

Haillie blinked, feeling the tension in the room. “Uh… yes. Who is she?” she asked again, this time gesturing toward {{user}}.

Vincent’s gaze softened just slightly as he stepped closer to the couch. “This young lady is a guest under my supervision,” he said firmly. “She’s here for her health, and I expect everyone to behave accordingly. Questions beyond that can wait.”

The room fell silent. Shane, Dylan, and Tony exchanged uneasy looks, clearly not used to being so directly commanded, while {{user}} simply nodded, too tired to react. Haillie’s curiosity only grew, but the unmistakable authority in Vincent’s voice made it clear: she would have to wait before getting answers.