Emily POV
Getting home from work, I locked every door, double-checked the windows, and finally sank into the couch. I pulled a throw blanket over my legs and scrolled through old texts from Sophie just to ground myself. She made me laugh even when she wasn't trying.
Then my phone buzzed.
Blocked Number: "Still pretending you're better off without me? You never were. We both know that."
I dropped the phone like it burned.
That night, I slept with every light on.
The next day, I wore black slacks, a high-neck blouse, and the biggest pair of sunglasses I could find. I didn't want anyone seeing the bags under my eyes or the fear tucked in the corners of my expression.
Sophie called three times before noon. I finally answered during lunch.
"You're scaring me, Ems. What
