Allyson's POV
The persistent knocking at my bedroom door made me want to bury myself deeper into my pillows. Gina's voice carried through the wood, laced with worry that I couldn't ignore any longer.
"Allyson, what's happening in there? You've been locked away since you came home from work, and you haven't said a single word."
Her knocking grew more urgent, each rap against the door like a hammer against my already pounding head. I knew she wouldn't give up. Gina had never been the type to let me wallow in silence when something was clearly wrong.
With a heavy sigh, I forced myself off the bed. My legs felt unsteady beneath me as I approached the door. My hand trembled as it hovered over the lock. Part of me wanted to keep the barrier between us, to stay hidden in my shame and heartbreak. But I couldn't avoid her forever.
