Chapter 4

I clenched the note tightly in my palm.

Suppressing my panic, I kept my voice as steady as possible:

"Nothing. Just chatting with a classmate. Need to write a paper."

Dad nodded without saying more, his thumb gently rubbing the corner of his shirt.

That was something he only did when nervous.

I decided to test him.

"Dad, don't you think Mom's been a bit different lately?"

A flicker of panic flashed through his eyes.

"Not at all. Your mom's been looking forward to you coming home. Maybe she just missed you too much."

I smiled:

"Maybe I'm overthinking it. I missed you guys too."

Then I faked a yawn and rubbed my eyes:

"I'm so tired. I'm going to bed."

I walked past him calmly, my steps measured.

Down from the attic, through the hallway, into my room.

The moment I closed the door, my whole body trembled.

I immediately pulled out my phone:

"Hello, I need to report something to the police."

"My mother is missing. I suspect she's been kidnapped or killed, and the perpetrator is in the house right now."

I gave them my address. The police said they'd dispatch officers immediately.

I breathed a slight sigh of relief. Just then, I heard rustling outside the door.

I pressed my ear against the door.

"She's too smart, just like her mother. She must have discovered something."

"Hide the medicine first. Don't let her see it."

"Give this to her. Only when she's completely silenced will we be safe."

My heart went cold. They were going to drug me.

In that instant, countless thoughts raced through my mind.

They must know I'm suspicious, so they want to silence me permanently.

As I considered how to escape, the door was suddenly knocked.

"Millia, I've warmed up some milk for you. Come out."

The doorknob moved but didn't turn.

"Millia, why did you lock the door? Open up!"