chapter 16

Emily's point of view;

As the school day wore on, I found it hard to focus. Emma noticed and pulled me aside during lunch.

"What's wrong, Emily?" she asked, her usual cheerful demeanor replaced with concern."It's Kelsey.

He hasn't come back, and I'm worried. I feel like it's my fault," I admitted. Emma frowned, searching for the right words.

"You can't blame yourself for everything. Families have problems.

They'll work it out. Just give it time."Her words offered some comfort, but the worry gnawed at me.

By the time school ended, I was exhausted from the emotional toll.

When we got home, I hesitated before entering the house, a part of me dreading what might happen next. Would Kelsey be there? Would things be the same? Austin noticed my hesitation and gave my shoulder a reassuring squeeze

"He'll come back, Em. Don't lose hope."Stepping inside, I was met with the same heavy silence.

I dropped my bag and went to my room, needing a moment alone.

As I lay on my bed, stari