Chapter 3 - 1.3 : First Problem
After Al’s three sisters left one by one, each citing their own busy schedules, an awkward silence settled over the living room. Al’s mother, Sandra, spoke in a soft but firm tone, her voice laced with responsibility.
"David, please escort Al to his room. He still needs rest after the long journey. You can also show him around briefly so he can get more familiar with the house."
She glanced at David, then at Al, eyes full of hope—but beneath it, a trace of worry lingered.
David gave a small nod, stood, and looked at Al with a coldness he barely tried to hide. Al stood up casually, showing no sign of unease, and followed David out of the room, leaving their mother behind in silence.
The Virellano main house was truly grand, towering five stories high with a basement. Its architecture was a blend of classical elegance and modern design, every corner exuding refined sophistication. But when David led Al to the farthest edge of the first floor, the atmosphere shifted dramatically.
So this house has ordinary rooms too, Al thought.
David opened a small door near a tall bookshelf in the corridor, revealing a room about two by three meters in size. It was empty except for a small bed with a thin mattress, lit by a dimming ceiling lamp.
Dust had settled thickly in the corners, and faint signs of age lingered in the air. This was once a maid’s room, unused for over a decade—its door rarely even opened.
"You’ll rest here for now," David said coolly, though he tried to sound neutral.
"Your actual room isn’t ready yet. Still being cleaned. So just rest here for now. I’ll take you to your real room after dinner."
He flashed a subtle smirk—one that only sharp eyes could catch.
Al was momentarily puzzled about being led to such a room, but after David’s explanation, he simply nodded. He scanned the small room expressionlessly. Without a word, he took off his backpack and placed it on the thinly covered bed, then stood beside it in silence.