The Emptiness Around Him

||Asher||

"Welcome home, Young Master."

Asher was greeted by Mr. Zhao and two maids at the entryway. He let out a low hum, acknowledging them while taking off his black winter coat.

The briefcase was already handed to Mr. Zhao who passed it to one of the maids. The maids shortly left with them.

Glancing briefly at his wristwatch, Mr. Zhao smilingly said, "You're home early, Young Master. Should I notify the kitchen to prepare your dinner now?"

Asher's indifferent gaze fell on the nearby wall clock. Half-past six was indeed early for him. It was an extremely rare occurrence for Asher to be home at this time.

"Yes," Asher nodded, "I'll be taking a bath before that."

For a second, his eyes lingered on the empty space next to Mr. Zhao. A familiar silhouette was conjured in his mind followed by a sweet voice welcoming him home.

In one blink, they disappeared.

"Understood, Young Master. I'll prepare the bath for you," Mr. Zhao didn't notice the subtle look given by Asher.