Cynthia Dion:
I no longer had to fret about being alone with Atticus as his plans had changed. Atticus, Mr. Holt, and Maleeka all left together after I had helped her get dressed. Maleeka told me that Atticus had informed Mr. Holt of his departure for the border due to worsening weather and electrical issues with the watchtowers. Thus, I didn't need to worry about encountering him. Since Mr. Holt hadn't left me with a cellphone, I had nothing to do and was essentially by myself. The maids and other staff members had already gone to their homes. Later, the guards informed me that due to the severe storm blocking the roads, I would be the only person in the mansion tonight.
I heard the doorbell ring persistently before the lone security guard answered it shortly after midnight. Curious, I
