The days dragged on, each one heavier than the last. The ache in my chest refused to fade, and the silence in my apartment became deafening. I couldn’t take it anymore. I needed something—someone—to distract me from the endless spiral of regret and heartbreak.
That’s when I thought of Chris.
He had always been there in the background, a steady presence with an easy charm. If anyone could take my mind off this mess, it was him.
With trembling hands, I picked up my phone and scrolled to his number. My thumb hovered over the call button for a moment before I pressed it.
“Mel?” His voice came through after the first ring, sounding surprised but warm.
“Hey, Chris,” I said, trying to sound casual, though my voice betrayed the nervousness I felt. “I was wondering if you’re free tonight. I co
