~~~ 

 

 "Thanks, I'll find my way out," Sophia said to Valerie and disappeared into the bathroom. 

 

 She heard Valerie's distant footsteps and she confirmed that she had gone. She then rested her head against the door and breathed out air through her lips. As if to calm her beating heart down, she placed her palm against her chest. 

 

 She flinched when she heard a knock on the door and she called out. “I’m almost out. I'm sorry," 

 

 The person outside the door didn't seem to get the memo and opened the door, then walked in and slammed her back against the door before locking it in place. 

 

 The scent of...