Chapter 4

My husband, Albert Gregory, had earned a black belt in Taekwondo in his spare time. I had even picked up some basic moves for self-defense.

When I got home, Albert was waiting with a big bouquet of roses, his voice soft and loving. "Happy birthday to my amazing wife!"

Despite his efforts, I couldn't shake off my worries.

During our candlelight dinner, he mentioned his upcoming overseas research trip. "This trip is really important, honey. I'll be away for two months and I won't be around to take care of you," he sighed.

I surprised him by firmly saying no. Knowing he wouldn’t believe in superstitions, I explained, "Albert, I had a dream a few nights ago. After you left, a guy broke into our house, tortured me, and you got killed while trying to protect me."

"Our whole family was ruined, while the bad guy got away," I said, trembling.

Albert squeezed my hand, worried. "How could that happen? We live in a safe neighborhood. Are you feeling okay?"

After a lot of pleading, Albert decided to stay and give up his scholarship opportunity.

I felt bad for holding him back, but I couldn’t ignore the grim date approaching—that stormy night when Rolf Wagner had broken into our home before. Fate seemed cruel.

I remembered it was a Friday. After school, Rolf had once followed me in the rain, begging to come inside.

That night, Albert was delayed by a storm. I grew anxious after I couldn't reach him. He finally texted me, "Honey, the rain’s causing accidents on the highway. Traffic’s crazy, and I can’t make it back. Rest up, okay?"

By 10:30 PM, there was no knock at the door.

The rain pounded harder, drowning out my scattered thoughts. I began to relax a bit and got sleepy. My body was sticky with cold sweat, so I decided to take a shower before bed.

The hot water felt comforting against my skin. In the bathroom mirror, I saw my reflection—cherry-like lips, a dainty nose, and big almond eyes with long lashes. I looked beautiful.

I touched my still-flat belly. Albert always said I was beautiful, and he wasn't bad-looking either. Our baby would be adorable.

Lost in thought, I grabbed a towel. But then I saw a shadowy face in the foggy mirror moving towards me.

It was Rolf Wagner!

Panic surged through me. This wasn’t a hallucination. He had somehow cracked our door lock.

A cold, muddy hand reached in. I screamed, but he quickly grabbed my waist, his other hand moving up my body.

"Mrs. Gregory, it’s raining outside, and I’m so cold. Can you... hold me?"