Ava was paralyzed by confusion and fear. Indeed, the footsteps had drawn closer, but not close enough to reach her hiding spot. This partly relieved her, but not sufficiently. The young woman closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and tried to sharpen her ears to evaluate what she couldn't see.

The sobs coming from Daniel's room were distressing, mixing with faint whispers that Ava attempted to decipher, but it was practically impossible. All she could perceive was the distress emanating from them.

"But... who could it be?" Ava scratched her head. "The only thing I identify is that it's definitely a woman; it has to be, I have no doubt about that."

Ava remained paralyzed by confusion and fear. Amidst her chaotic thoughts, she tried to discern who might be in the room at that moment; the uncertainty tormented her more and more. Her doubts became more confusing with each passing second.

Could it be... someone from his family? Perhaps Natalia, who seems to care a lot for her brother... or