Shana had always heard her elders say, "Keep your happiness hidden." But for the first time, she truly understood the meaning of those words.
Sitting lifelessly on the edge of the bed — the same bed where she had once made love and been loved — she stared blankly at nothing in particular.
The dried trail of tears had stiffened her skin, but she didn’t care.
It felt as though she no longer existed.
As if betrayal had drained her of the will to leave… or to trust.
She knew that everyone was gathered outside her room; their low whispers were proof enough. But she couldn’t bring herself to care enough to acknowledge them.
Her life was already a wreck.
She had trusted someone she never should have.
Sitting motionless, her gaze eventually fell on her wardrobe, and with newfound determination, she stood up.
She picked up her phone, dialled a number, and spoke as soon as the call connected. "I need you."