Chapter Seventeen

Emily paced the living room, her thoughts racing with the events of the last few days. The uncomfortable meeting with Samantha had made her nervous, and Jake's strange infatuation added to her concerns. She had spent the whole day cleaning up the home, attempting to restore a feeling of normality in anticipation of Will's return. The clock on the wall appeared to tick louder with each passing minute, raising her suspense and concern.

Finally, the sound of the front door opening carried throughout the house. Emily's pulse raced as she dashed to the hallway, where she spotted Will waiting with his suitcase, looking exhausted but pleased to be back home. He dropped his luggage and held her fiercely, the warmth of his arms relieving some of her anxiety.

"Hey, you," he whispered quietly, planting a kiss on her forehead. "I missed you."

"I missed you too," Emily said, hugging him tight. She drew back slightly to gaze at him, and a grin broke through her frightened countenance. "How was your