The high speed

Knock-Knock-Knock…

A frantic pounding echoed through the house. "Esme, please open the door. You are freaking me out." Adelynn's voice boomed in concern.

Inside the room, Esme's sobs echoed against the walls, muffled by the pillow she clutched tightly to her chest. Tears stained her cheeks. Her heart felt heavy with the weight of betrayal, and she couldn't bring herself to face Adelynn, let alone explain what had transpired.

She had left Silas's villa out of fury and hurt. But she craved his warmth, his consoling words. She was upset with him for suspecting her and yelling at her so she decided to stay away from him, but her heart ached terribly.

"Esme!" 

Bang-Bang-Bang… 

The pounding escalated to a rapid assault. "Are you okay?"

Esme wiped at her tear-streaked cheeks. "I have a headache. Please let me rest for a while." Her voice was hoarse from crying. 

"Are you sure?" Adelynn pressed, worry etched on her voice.