(Esther’s Point of View)
Matthew answered the call without looking at me.
I stood there, frozen, watching his face change as he listened. His shoulders stiffened first. Then his jaw locked. I could tell when the voice on the other end said something that cut deep, because Matthew’s eyes darkened like a storm rolling in.
“Yes,” he said quietly. “I understand.”
I took a step closer. My heart was beating so loud I was sure he could hear it.
“No,” he added. “I won’t rush this.”
Silence.
“I said I understand,” he repeated, firmer this time.
He ended the call and slowly lowered the phone.
I searched his face. “Who was that.”
He didn’t answer right away. He walked to the window and stared out into the night like the city might give him strength.
“Matthew,” I said, softer now.
He turne
