The buzzing of the phone echoed in the quiet room, sharp and insistent, like a reminder that the world outside was far from the peace we had built inside these walls. I had hoped for a moment longer, just a moment, to breathe, to enjoy the feeling of—of being together without any looming threats or doubts.
But then Robert’s name flashed across the screen.
My fingers hovered over the screen for a moment before I pressed accept, feeling my heart race as the seconds ticked by.
“Leila,” his voice came through the phone, smooth and controlled, as always. “I think it’s time we had a little chat.”
I could feel the weight of his words settle over me, his calm, calculating tone making my stomach twist. But I didn’t flinch. I didn’t give him the satisfaction of showing how much his presence still unnerved me. Not this time. Not after everything we had been through.
“I’m listening,” I said, my voice steady, despite the storm brewing inside me.
There was a brief silence on the other end, then a s
