Chapter 12

The drive to Chloe's place was a mixture of anticipation and unease. Elma's mind swirled with questions and doubts, but the thought of seeking solace in the embrace of her friend provided a flicker of hope amidst the darkness that had engulfed her life.

Arriving at Chloe's apartment complex, Elma parked her car and made her way up to the familiar door. She knocked, her heart pounding in her chest, and waited anxiously for Chloe to answer. Moments later, the door swung open, revealing Chloe's warm smile.

"Elma, come in," Chloe said, opening her arms for a comforting embrace. ". What's been going on? You sounded really troubled on the phone."

Elma stepped inside, feeling a sense of relief wash over her as she embraced Chloe. Tears threatened to spill once again as she stepped back, her voice wavering as she began to recount the events that had transpired.

"Chloe, it's... it's a mess," Elma began, her voice laced with pain. "I overheard Gael and his associates talking about a blogger who