Chapter 21: Clean Cut

Returning to the mansion late at night, Michelle was surprised to find everyone still awake.
Looking solemn, her father sat beside the living room sofa while her mother seemed troubled.
Her younger brother, Hillyard, was engrossed in playing games.
Even the butler, Alfred, was present.
Sensing an unusual atmosphere, Michelle asked, "Mom, Dad, what's going on?"
"Michelle?" Jane, her mother, seemed surprised. "Why are you back? Wasn't there a school event? You usually don't come home...