_Aria’s POV_
I was tense.
Every part of my body felt tight as if I were stretched too thin and might snap at any moment. I sat on the edge of the bed, my hands clenched in my lap, my phone resting between my palms.
I had messaged Ryan again.
And again.
And again.
But there was no reply. The screen stayed silent.
My heart beat fast and uneven. Each second that passed made the fear grow heavier inside my chest. Ryan had promised he would figure something out. He had promised I was not alone.
So why wasn’t he answering?
I typed another message, my fingers shaking.
Where are you?
Please reply.
Nothing.
I swallowed hard and stared at the door. For the first time, I truly thought about running.
What if I just opened the window? What if I slipped out quietly and ran as far as I cou
