I hurried to the hall, catching a glimpse of Nicholas running up the stairs. "Nicholas!" I called out.

It was as if he didn't even hear me. As much relief as I'd felt a few moments before, at the sight of him, I felt only despair as he disappeared again. He didn't even acknowledge me.

What was wrong with him?

I started up the stairs, cringing at the sound of another door slamming. Tears started falling from my eyes again and I felt silly looking down at my pretty dress and high heels.

I ...