The Ashford Mansion was glowing beneath crystal chandeliers as relatives gathered for an elegant evening celebration. Soft music echoed through the marble halls while guests enjoyed quiet conversations.
Then...
A terrifying scream shattered the silence.
Everyone looked toward the grand staircase.
A woman in a flowing red gown lost her footing and tumbled down the polished white steps.
She came to rest at the bottom of the staircase, motionless.
The music stopped.
Guests froze in disbelief.
Daniel Ashford burst into the foyer after hearing the commotion.
The moment he saw Chloe lying on the floor, he sprinted toward her.
Dropping to his knees, he gently lifted her head into his hands.
His breathing became uneven.
A thin line of blood trickled from Chloe's nose onto her cheek.
"Chloe... hang in there. I'm here with you."
His voice shook with fear.
Several guests called emergency services while others hurried to bring first-aid supplies.
Daniel carefully checked whether Chloe was breathing and kept speaking to her, hoping she would respond.
Then...
Something caught his attention.
He slowly raised his eyes toward the top of the staircase.
Someone was still standing there.
A woman dressed entirely in white.
She hadn't moved.
Daniel's expression changed from panic...
To determination.