Significant Step

Othon

I'm sitting on my couch, desperately trying to focus on the words of the book in front of me, but my thoughts keep wandering to the neighboring house. It's as if a magnetic force is pulling me in that direction, even though I try to resist.

I decided to call Karen. I need to hear her voice, even if it's just for a few minutes. After all, how is it possible that two neighbors, who also work in the same place, have spent the whole day without seeing each other? This idea deeply bothers me.

When Karen answers the phone, her voice sounds strangely cold and distant. A tightness forms in my chest instantly. Something is wrong, I'm sure of it. I can't simply ignore this gut feeling.

When I ask if something is wrong, there's a pause on the other end of the line, which seems to stretch for an eternity. My heart starts beating faster as I wait for a response. Finally, Karen answers, but her voice sounds hesitant as if she's carefully choosing her words.

"Everything's fine, Othon. Don't wo