A Reign of Terror.

The next morning, Karan sensed something off about Valeria. Her usual warmth and responsiveness were replaced by an unsettling silence. He couldn't quite put his finger on it, but his instincts screamed that something was amiss.

Assuming she'd open up later or he would ask about it, Karan pushed aside his concerns, focusing on his daily routine. However, as night fell, Valeria's continued radio silence grew more alarming.

No replies to his texts, no missed calls, no whispers of explanation. The void was deafening.

Karan's unease deepened, his mind racing with worst-case scenarios. Where was Valeria? Why wasn't she responding?

Karan's mind was a jumbled mess, his thoughts racing with concern. Had he inadvertently upset Valeria the previous night? He replayed their last conversation, but nothing stood out as amiss. They'd parted ways on a warm, tender note.

As he entered the kitchen, he spotted Valeria standing alone, her back to him. The soft glow of the evening lights danced