09. Silent Begging

[Rachel's POV]

I found myself standing alone in a lively jazz club, surrounded by the sights and sounds of people enjoying themselves. My eyes remained fixed on the spot where Gabriel had left me, feeling a mix of anticipation and worry. The club seemed to grow quieter, as if the music and laughter were fading into the background, leaving me alone with my thoughts.

Questions started to creep into my mind, casting doubts on Gabriel's sudden departure. Did he not consider me important enough to stay by my side? I couldn't help but feel a rising unease, as if something was amiss.

Time dragged on, and the people around me began to shift and move. I could feel their curious glances directed at me, their stares making me uncomfortable. It was as if they were silently judging me, and the weight of their scrutiny settled heavily on my shoulders. The world around me started to blur, and I could barely make out the hushed whispers that reached my ears. A man's voice, dripping with disdain, mu