#Chapter 190: Grief

Late in the night, as the city outside my window settled into a hushed slumber, a heavy sound echoed through the hallways of the apartment building. Startled from my restless sleep, I sat up in bed, the sound reverberating in my ears. I hesitated for a moment, the confusion and unease that had gripped me over the past few hours flooding back. The sound persisted, growing louder and more urgent. With a sigh, I slipped out of bed and, shrouded in my robe, shuffled down the hall to my front door. I opened it cautiously, revealing the disheveled and weary figure of Timothy standing outside, attempting to shove his keys in his apartment door. "Timothy?" I whispered, shock and concern washing over me. He looked like he was ready to fall apart. His disheveled hair, wrinkled clothes, and the distant look in his eyes said it all. Timothy's gaze met mine, and there was a fleeting glimpse of surprise before he quickly masked his emotions. "Evie," he muttered, his voice slurred. "It’s late."