“Miss, this storm’s too strong, the roads are rough. I had to swing around a long way, so the cost…”
I didn’t even dare draw a loud breath. “It’s fine, I’ll hand you another five hundred. We’re close. My husband’s waiting at home. Drop me at the next intersection.”
Right after I stepped out, I didn’t even try to grab my suitcase.
I bolted across the empty, rain-soaked block.
The taxi’s beams stayed locked on me for a long time before finally pulling away.
My knees gave out, and I sank onto the curb, wrapping my arms around myself as my whole frame shook.
I couldn’t tell if the wet on my cheeks came from the storm or from crying.
My screen lit up.
Zaria sent a photo. A guy rinsing off behind fogged bathroom glass.
[Astraea, I asked Chase to head back, but he said the thunder outside might scare me, so he wants to stay with me. Don’t misunderstand.]
Barely five seconds later, Chase’s text arrived. [I need extra hours. Come back alone.]
Both messages sat side by side.
I wiped my face and let out a breathless, quiet laugh.
By the time I reached home, it was already 3 a.m.
My whole frame swung between cold fever.