Zinnia was just stepping out of her car when she heard the familiar ping of a message. She glanced down at her phone, her smile fading slightly as she read Samuel's words.
Something urgent came up. I might be late. Don't wait up.
For a moment, she just stood there, the screen's light reflecting on her face. The words felt distant, like they were pushing her away, but she took a breath, trying not to overthink. Samuel had been so different lately—kinder, warmer—and she didn't want to lose that.
She typed back, It's okay. Take care of whatever it is. I'll see you when you get back.
She hesitated before sending it, her fingers lingering over the screen. She didn't want to sound upset, because she wasn't. Not really. She was just… worried.
As she walked up to the house, keys in hand, the door creaked open, and she was greeted by an empty, quiet space. There was no smell of cooking, no soft sounds of Samuel bustling in the kitchen. It was just stillness.
