Chapter 12 – Almost Discovered
313 Words
Amara arrived at Jerome’s apartment earlier than usual, carrying a bag of takeout. She had been worrying about him all day—he hadn’t answered her last call, and though he claimed to be “just busy,” something inside her whispered otherwise.
The door was unlocked.
“Jerome?” she called, stepping inside.
The living room was dim, the curtains drawn. She set the food on the table, her unease growing with every step.
That’s when she saw him.
Jerome was slumped against the wall in the hallway, one hand braced on the floor, breathing shallowly. His face was pale, sweat slicking his brow.
“Jerome!” Amara dropped to her knees, panic flooding her. “What happened? Are you hurt?”
He flinched, forcing his eyes open. “I—I’m fine. Just… dizzy. Must’ve skipped lunch.”
“You don’t look fine,” she said, her voice trembling. She tried to steady him, but he pulled away, gathering what strength he could to stand on his own.
“Really, Amara. I’m okay. Just tired.” He managed a weak smile, his hands trembling as he straightened.
Her eyes searched his face. Something about the way he avoided her gaze, the way he tried too hard to appear steady, told her this was more than exhaustion. But before she could press further, he touched her cheek, soft and gentle.
“Don’t worry so much,” he whispered. “You know I hate it when you do.”
Her heart clenched. Against her better judgment, she let it go. For now.
They sat together, eating in silence, though Jerome barely touched his food. Amara laughed at something trivial, but inside, doubt gnawed at her.
Was Jerome really just tired? Or was there something he wasn’t telling her?
She didn’t know the answer. But deep inside, she feared the truth would break her.
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