Chapter 49: Amelia’s Strength

I sat at the kitchen table, the familiar hum of the city outside the window scarcely perceptible, the weight of the world bearing on my chest. Over the past few weeks, my life had been a tornado of confusion and unpredictability, but I had had enough. I could no longer allow Ryan, Andrew, or anybody else to control my life. It was time to regain command.

I breathed in deeply as the cold air filled my lungs. I would advocate for myself today, making a stand.

The ringing of my phone jolted me from my daydream, and glancing down, I noticed Andrew's name lighting up on the display. I thought about putting it on voicemail for a moment but realized that wasn't wise. I couldn't avoid ignoring him. I needed to face him, and I had to do it right away.

Even with my heart racing, I calmly said, "Hello, Andrew."