It had been a long few months, with minimum contact with anyone outside of the business, it was hard for William to maintain any relationships he had; including Noah. He felt like shit for not being able to call very often but was happy when they were able to speak. He didn't know about anything that might have been happening on Noah side, which was worrying but he trusted Noah to tell him when something is wrong, probably a bad idea but still.
He stretched in his seat, looking up at the dark mahogany walls that were stained with the scent of cigarette smoke and alcohol. It was almost 3 in the morning, and he was sure Noah was sleeping so he wouldn't dare call and disturb his partner. He closed his eyes, sighing heavily as he took in the all-too-familiar surroundings.
A wave of exhaustion came over him, he still needed to do about 600 more paperwork for the liabilities and new insurance policies that came with the renewal of the business. He wishes he could just take a month off to get married and spend time with his family. Still, he had to work, to provide for his family.
In his exhausted daze, though no one should be here in these hours, he swore he heard a little girl's laugh from down the hall nearest the back door. He opened his eyes again, getting up and reaching for the flashlight to see.
Making his way out his office and down the hall, from pillar to post as he traveled from the different areas of the establishment trying to find the little girl, finding none. He scratched his head in confusion, wondering where this child could have gone. He made his way to the kitchen, hoping to just drink some cold water to clear his head. Once there, he made his way to find a glass to fill with water; A familiar melody plays causing him to turn around and face the source of it.
A small music box left on the counter. It played the song "Grandfather's Clock" as it ticked. Moving closer, he watched on as it played, remembering the melody that was burned into his mind.
"I remember you. But I'm not afraid of you."
William's eyes widened at the voice, turning back to where he came from to see her.
The song ended, his flashlight died, and the last thing he saw was the undead, mangled face of Charlotte lunging towards him.