My thoughts whirled in a disorganizing chaos while I lay in bed. The talk with Lydia had set something strong inside me — a sense of doom I couldn't ignore. Closing my eyes, I tried to slow my beating heart, but sleep escaped me.
A great bang shocked me hours later. As I listened, my heart hammered, trying to pick up any indication of what was happening downstairs. I heard still another thump, then muffled words. My anxiety sharpened — something was off.
Pulling all the bravery I could gather, I slipped from bed and descended the stairs, moving as silently as I could. Paul and Lydia were in the foyer, their voices raised in passionate discussion, when I descended.
"I advised you against coming here!" Paul spoke with a hard edge. You have no right to bring her into this.
Though Lydia sp
