16

HAZEL didn’t even wait for Amelia to utter a single word.

She immediately turned on her heel and walked away, long strides sharp and purposeful, anger etched plainly across her face. It wasn’t loud or dramatic, no slammed door, no raised voice, but it was unmistakable. And Amelia saw it. The tight jaw. The stiff shoulders. The way Hazel’s back went rigid as if holding back words that could scorch.

Amelia only sighed.

The sound was tired and heavy. Like it came from somewhere far deeper than her lungs.

She didn’t call Hazel back. Didn’t even chase after her. Didn’t explain, didn’t apologize, didn’t ask her to stay. Sometimes...