The midday sun beat down relentlessly on the affluent suburban neighborhood of Cypress Creek. Heat radiated from the immaculate asphalt streets, but behind the tall, slatted cedar fences of Julian’s property, a private oasis awaited. Julian, a fifty-two-year-old retired architect with a deep, sun-weathered tan and meticulously trimmed salt-and-pepper hair, had spent the last three years designing this backyard. It was his masterpiece.
At the center of the lush, tropical landscaping lay a massive, custom-built infinity pool. The water was a brilliant, sparkling cyan, reflecting the cloudless summer sky. The patio was paved with expensive, light-colored travertine stone that stayed cool even in the blistering heat. Today was a special day; Julian’s brother and his family had flown in from out of state for a week-long reunion. The sounds of children splashing, ice clinking in glasses, and joyous laughter filled the air.
Julian reclined on a dark brown luxury lounger at the edge of the water. He wore a light blue linen shirt, left unbuttoned at the top to combat the heat, and dark swim trunks. His sunglasses hung casually from his collar. Beside him rested a tall glass of iced tea, condensation dripping down its sides. For the first time in months, he felt completely at peace. He picked up his phone, capturing a quick video of his nieces and nephews playing volleyball in the shallow end, a proud smile touching his lips. It was the perfect summer afternoon.
The heavy wooden gate at the side of Julian’s house was designed to lock automatically, but earlier that morning, the landscaping crew had left it slightly unlatched. It was a minor oversight, one Julian had intended to fix before the afternoon was over. He never expected someone to take advantage of it.
The joyous splashing in the pool suddenly ceased. Julian’s brother, standing waist-deep in the water, frowned and looked toward the patio entrance. Julian lowered his phone and turned his head.