The attic was freezing, the air heavy with the scent of damp wood and mildew. Her phone’s flashlight cut through the gloom, revealing boxes stacked haphazardly and furniture draped in white sheets. At first glance, it seemed unremarkable—until her beam landed on something out of place.

In the far corner, a small bed sat against the wall, unmade. A few worn toys lay scattered nearby—a stuffed bear missing an eye, a doll with frayed hair. The scene felt frozen in time, untouched yet strangely alive.

“What are you doing up here?”

Millie whipped around, her heart leaping into her throat. Nina stood at the entrance, her face pale and her eyes wide with something between fury and terror. “I… I thought I heard something,” Millie stammered, the lie weak even to her own ears.

Nina stepped forward, her shadow stretching long across the attic floor. “You’re not allowed up here,” she hissed, her voice low and venomous. “Do you understand me?”

Millie nodded, backing toward the door. “Good,” Nina said, regaining her composure. She smiled, but it didn’t reach her eyes. “Let’s keep it that way.”