Chapter 11
Hank, convinced that Clayton had fallen into a deep sleep under the effect of the sedative incense, once again masked his presence. Even though everything appeared to be going according to plan, he wasn't about to jeopardize the operation with a single careless move.
When he reached Clayton's door, he noticed a yellow dog fast asleep on the porch. If not for the slow rise and fall of its chest, he might have assumed the animal was dead.
Hank checked briefly and grinned in satisfaction—completely unconscious.
With extreme caution, he pushed the door open.
Creeeak!
Despite his care, the old door let out a high-pitched groan. Hank cursed under his breath. Thankfully, he had already sedated everyone inside. Otherwise, that one sound could have ruined everything.
After a brief struggle, he finally slipped into the house.
Inside, he saw Clayton lying peacefully asleep—almost unnaturally still, like a prince in a fairytale.
The sight made Hank's heart race with anticipation.
But he didn't rush.
He scanned the room, ensuring there were no signs of life apart from Clayton's steady breathing. Only then did he move forward with confidence.