#Chapter 156: Midnight Visitor

Abby A curse slips out of my mouth as I lurch across my living room. My fingers are clumsy as I fumble with the door handle, but finally, I yank it open. The porch light filters in, revealing Karl, his figure imposing even in the darkness of the street outside. “What are you doing here?” I’m more tired than angry, and a little too drunk for my own good, leaving my voice harsher than I really intend. Karl’s eyes scan over me, taking in my haphazard state, before his gaze floats past me and into the equally haphazard state of my apartment. “Why aren’t you answering your phone?” he asks. “I’ve been trying to call you. I’m worried.” I lean against the doorway, partially to hide his view of the mess in my living room but also partially to steady myself. “I didn’t feel like talking tonight,” I say, hoping my tense tone conveys exactly what I want it to: that I need space. Or do I need space, really? But Karl doesn’t budge. Instead, he steps forward, brushing past me before