Julian’s heartfelt apology

Ring-Ring-Ring…

The insistent trill of Esme's phone shattered the hushed air of the room. She snatched it up, heart leaping in anticipation of Silas's name. But a flicker of disappointment washed over her as Julian's name glared back at her. A sharp pang of guilt followed. 

She had not gone back to the hospital to check on him, nor had she spoken to the doctor about his condition. What on earth must he be thinking? How could she possibly explain?

Esme hesitated for a moment before answering the call. "Hello," she said tentatively.

His voice, laced with concern, drifted through the phone. "Hey... I was wondering if you were okay. You didn't return."

Shame burned in her cheeks. "Um, it's... I... ahem," she stammered, her mind a tangled mess. "Sorry, Julian. I came back. I was..."