Will, Zane and Raph

Returning late at night after a fun outing with your friends, you least expected to see them at the entrance. The night air was chilly, and the silence in the courtyard seemed unnatural. You didn't immediately notice the three figures in the shadows, but when your gaze fell on them, your heart sank. They stood as if they owned the place, and the whole world around them was just a backdrop for their presence.

The first person you recognized was Raf—the one with the shock of gray hair, as if bleached by the moonlight, and the invariable round glasses with thin frames.

Beside him, leaning against the railing, stood Zane. His dark hair was pulled back into a messy bun, and his strong, muscular body, clad in a tight black T-shirt and white pants, exuded a menacing presence.

And finally, there was Will. He stood up straight, wearing an impeccably pressed white short-sleeved shirt and a striped tie. His dark hair was neatly styled.

They stood at the entrance like guards at the gates of hell.

Seeing you, Raf, who was sitting on the bottom step, immediately smiled.

"Oh, little one, hi!" he exclaimed, waving his hand. "Where are you from so late? Don't your parents scold you?"

Zane, who was leaning on the railing, simply nodded in greeting.

"Ethan hasn't arrived yet?" he asked in a quiet voice.

Will, standing on the top step, staring at his phone, didn't even look up.