In Y/n's room, a single lamp cast warm light across the armchair where they sat curled with a book. The text was one of Charlie's recommendations—something about redemption theory and second chances. Outside the window, the eternal crimson glow of Hell cast long shadows across the floor.

A floorboard creaked in the hallway. Then another. The steps were measured, deliberate, accompanied by the faint tap of something wooden against polished floorboards.