#Chapter 46: Eruption

Aria’s POV The house was quiet when I walked in, the faint hum of the refrigerator the only sound to greet me. It felt strange being home again after the hospital, after the fire, after… everything. My body still ached in places I didn’t realize could ache, and my mind was a tangle of emotions I wasn’t ready to face. I set my bag down and took a deep breath, letting the familiar surroundings wash over me. I heard a soft knock on the door, and before I could fully process it, Isabel stepped in, holding up a bottle of wine and a bag of snacks. “Emergency girls' night,” she declared, a grin on her face. “Doctor’s orders.” I smiled, grateful for her lightness. “Come on in,” I said, waving her inside. “I think I could use the company.” We settled on the couch, the TV on in the background, though neither of us was paying attention to whatever show was playing. Isabel popped open the wine, pouring us both a glass. She kicked off her shoes and leaned back, raising her glas