Rayline.

The atmosphere in front of the house was almost pitch black when I stopped and I was breathing heavily. Taylor offered to accompany me, but I declined, telling him that I wanted to talk to Cole alone. With a nod, he left, leaving me standing in front of the dimly lit doorway.

The sound of a knock echoed in the silent night, and after a tense minute, Cole opened the door, shock clearly visible on his face.

"Hey," I greeted him, concern etched into my face.

"Hey. What are you doing here?" he asked, stepping forward.

"I, um... I wanted to talk to you."

Then he furrowed his brow,...