Compared to the rest of the villa, Alex's study was a bit dusty. The windows were tightly shut. Lily had to push the curtains aside to let the sunlight flood into the room, while Leo sneezed as dust flew through the air.
Arianne hesitated to enter. It felt too personal, too intrusive to be in Alex's private space. However, as she glanced around the room, she was reminded of what they'd lost. Baby pictures of the twins were carefully framed and placed on the shelves. Pictures of Alex's school days were also on display.
Arianne spotted a familiar picture on one of the shelves. She stepped inside and stared at it. She remembered when that picture was taken. She took the photo from the shelf to see it clearly.
It was their senior year. She, Alex, and Gilbert had represented the school in a math competition—and won.
She had been the only girl on the team. Not everyone had approved.
