#Chapter 56: Black Hole

I hadn't left my apartment in days. The air was stale, thick with the smell of cold coffee and regret. Simon knocked softly at first, then harder. When I didn't answer, he used the key I gave him for emergencies and came in. "Amelia," he said quietly, taking in the mess. "Jesus. You look awful." I didn't even turn my head. "Get out." He walked in further, voice gentling. "Hey. Talk to me. Please. You can't just stay in here like this." I pulled the blanket tighter. "You don't know anything." He sat on the edge of the coffee table. "Try me." My voice cracked. "He let them humiliate me. He didn't even defend me. Elsa's everywhere. Those photos—" Simon sighed. "I told you he'd do this. I warned you." My fingers curled into fists. "You think I don't know? I know he's bad for me. I know. But I can't stop. I can't help it." His voice grew harsh. "Then stop pretending you're some innocent victim when you keep going back to him." I sat up, voice shaking. "Don't you dare bla