The Keke sputtered to a halt outside their shared apartment building, the familiar brick façade offering a semblance of sanctuary. Stella paid the driver, her hands still trembling as she fumbled with her phone. The short ride felt like an eternity, every bump and jolt a reminder of the night's abrupt, violent end.
Climbing the stairs to their third-floor apartment, the weight of what had happened pressed down on her, making each step a Herculean effort.
Blessing was already in the room dressed, her phone in her hand. Her eyes, usually so warm and empathetic, were filled with a mixture of fear and concern as Stella finally pushed the door open and stumbled inside.
"Stella! Oh my God, you're here!" Blessing rushed towards her, her arms wrapping around Stella in a fierce embrace. "What ha
