chapter 84

Tom stepped through the front door, kicking off his worn-out shoes and calling out to his daughter. "Emily? Are you home?" His voice reverberated through the silent house, but there was no response. He furrowed his brow, even more concerned when he noticed the door being unlocked when he came in.

Emily sat huddled in her room, a cascade of tears streaming down her anguished face. The room felt dull and oppressive, mirroring the heaviness in her heart. Shadows danced on the walls as the lights gently faded, casting an eerie glow over her pain. She pressed her trembling hands against her mouth, trying to muffle the sound of her sobs.

Amidst her torment, a distant voice broke through her despair. She was hearing her dad call out her name from the living room. Her father's concerned tone penetrated the walls, swift and soft like a gentle breeze. His voice held a warmth that Emily yearned for, even in the midst of her heartache.

Startled, Emily wiped her tears with her sleeve and took in a