Behind The Facade

Evelyn I do not want to open the door— That's what I tried to convince myself as I struggled to remain in my place, battling my own inner turmoil. Why was he here? He shouldn't be second-guessing himself given how composedly he had uttered those words, sharp as daggers, without a hint of hesitation. He had won that round—slipping away effortlessly. "Evelyn?" Damn! The timbre of his voice tugged at me, and I resented how much sway he held over me and I despised how much control he had over me. Anger surged within me, and I wiped away my tears, determined to stand my ground. I got off the bed, determined not to let him affect me any longer. Enough was enough. I opened the door. "Why are you here? Want me to book a plane ticket for you?" Instead of the quick response I had expected, he looked at me, his eyes taking in my tear-stained face and the evidence of my crying. His gaze softened. For a fleeting moment, my anger wavered, but I clenched my fists, holding on to it. He wa