Fiona’s car came to a halt outside the grand De Luca mansion. Without wasting time, she stepped out and quickly dialed Aria’s number.
“Where are you?” she asked the moment Aria picked up.
“I’m in the garden… behind the mansion,” Aria’s voice came out soft and tired.
Fiona ended the call and made her way around the mansion, guided by the dim garden lights and the faint rustling of leaves. As she approached, she spotted Aria sitting on the wooden swing under the old oak tree, her shoulders slumped, her face turned away.
“Aria…” Fiona called gently.
Aria stood up slowly, and the moment she saw her friend, all the strength she’d been holding onto crumbled. She rushed into Fiona’s arms and burst into tears.
Fiona held her tightly, stroking her hair. “It’s okay. I’m here. Let it out.”
The
