*Shelby*

A week had passed since I arrived at our beach house, seeking relief and distance from the turmoil that had taken over our lives. As I lay in bed, the waves crashing outside the window, I couldn't shake the persistent feeling of sickness that had taken hold of me. I clutched my stomach, my body aching, and my mind clouded with a whirlwind of emotions.

My phone buzzed on the nightstand, indicating a new message from Michael. I sighed and ...