The shrill sound of Lily's phone alarm cut through the morning silence, jolting her awake from an uneasy slumber on the couch. As consciousness slowly seeped in, she realized that Kade had not returned home overnight. Anxiety clutched at her chest, and her gaze darted around the living room as if expecting him to materialize.
Checking her phone revealed no messages or missed calls. A growing knot of worry twisted in Lily's stomach. Where was Kade? Why hadn't he come home? The unanswered questions hung in the air, casting a shadow over the morning light.
Determined to ease her rising concern, Lily dialled Kade's number. The phone rang, each ring amplifying the anxiety coursing through her veins. On the fifth ring, he picked up, and a mix of relief and apprehension flooded Lily's senses.
