(Lyra’s POV)
The ride back to my apartment was quiet, but my head wasn’t. My uncle’s voice wouldn’t stop echoing in my ears, heavier with every second.
When I finally pushed my door open, I dropped my bag and leaned against the wall, trying to catch my breath. The air inside felt stale, almost too still, like it could hear the pounding of my heart.
I walked into the small living room, sat on the couch, and stared at nothing. My hands twisted together in my lap, restless and cold.
Uncle Cal’s words replayed over and over, the way he said them with so much warmth, so much hope.”My only wish this year is to see you with someone by your side.”
Those words cut deeper than I wanted to admit.
I unlocked the door and stepped into the quiet apartment. Normally, I found comfort in this silence
