Emma came home at six. The house felt different. Or maybe she felt different. Changed by decisions made. By promises received. By courage finally found.

She climbed the stairs. Each step deliberate. Purposeful. Walked to Liam's door. Knocked softly.

"Go away."

"Liam. Please. I need to talk to you."

Silence. Then footsteps. Door opening. Liam stood there. Still angry. Still hurt. But something in his face shifted seeing her expression.

"What?" he ...