Mona’s POV
I released a breath I hadn’t realized I had been holding, my heart pounding as adrenaline coursed through my veins. I knew I had to keep my composure; collapsing now would mean giving in to the chaos. My mother was still on the line, her voice a comforting tether to reality, and I could not let her sense my vulnerability. Not now.
“Mama?” I said, trying to steady my voice, but it came out a little shakier than I intended.
“Mona?” Her voice crackled through the receiver, laced with concern and worry. “What happened? Are you okay?”
I squeezed my eyes shut, trying to push back the tumult of emotions threatening to spill over. Gritting my teeth, I let out a shaky breath. “I’m okay, Mama. Just… just a little more trouble. But I’m fine. I promise.” I hoped my words could mask the
