Chapter52:

Chapter 52: Max’s Point of View The ring of my phone shattered the quiet in my office. I rubbed my eyes, trying to focus on the endless paperwork in front of me. It was late, and all I wanted was to clear my mind, but as soon as I saw the caller ID, I knew that wouldn’t happen. Emily. Sara’s mother. I almost didn’t pick up, but something told me I should. “Max?” Emily’s voice came through, soft but tense. “Sara… She’s locked herself in her room. She hasn’t eaten or come out all day. She’s... she’s devastated. I thought you should know.” A surge of guilt twisted in my chest. Despite everything, I hadn’t expected Sara to react like this. The thought of her sitting alone, hurting, left me uneasy. I sighed, pinching the bridge of my nose. “Is she… Is she alright?” I asked, voice strained. Emily sighed, her voice laced with worry. “She’s not, Max. You need to come over. Maybe… maybe you can talk some sense into her.” After a moment’s hesitation, I agreed, ending the call. As I grabbed my ke