Lillie
My gaze shifts from my mother to that mysterious man standing beside her bed. His eyes betray a hint of concern. I know her very well, and that's why I know something is wrong. I hope it's nothing serious.
I walk towards her to get a bit closer. The stranger keeps staring at me. It's not a leering gaze that might make one uncomfortable; it's something else, something strange, as if we know each other, as if we've seen each other somewhere before, but we haven't. I've never crossed paths with this man in my life. If I had, I would never have forgotten. He exudes an air of power, mystery, and elegance with his presence. I don't know if everyone who knows him feels the same way, but it's how I feel.
"Daughter, come closer," my mother's voice carries a hint of nerves.
I reach her an
