Hollow ache.

Persistent knocking erupted at Audrey’s door.

​ “What in the hell?” Audrey wondered.

Her father had gone to sleep, and she was nursing a headache from last night. The banging at the door wasn’t going to help either of them.

Audrey answered the door was surprised to find Lucien standing there. He looked awful, as though he hadn’t slept in days.

​ “How did you find me?” she asked.

​ “Are you kidding? You think you could just disappear on me?”

​ “What do you want?” Audrey sighed.

​ “We need to talk.”

​

Audrey wanted to send him away. She wanted him to turn away and walk out of her life. But they did need to talk. To resolve things once and for all.

​ “Fine. Daddy just went to sleep. I have some time.” She stepped aside, making space for him.

“Come in.”

Lucien looked around the apartment as Audrey led him to a cozy couch.

​ “This is small,” he commented.

​ “It’s more than enough for Daddy and me. Did you come here to insult my apartment?”

​ “Why did you leave?”

​ “Really?” Audrey laughed.