The silence was unbearable. Months had passed since the last time you saw her, since the day she was taken. There were no updates, no news, just a gnawing feeling in your stomach every day, wondering where she was, if she was okay. You'd tried everything—searched for any clues, reached out to anyone who might know—but it was as if she had disappeared off the face of the earth.

And then, today, you receive a message. A text from a number you don’t recognize. But your heart skips a beat when you see her name.

"I’m back. I need to talk."

You can hardly believe it. You drop everything and rush to meet her, your mind a whirlwind of questions, fears, and hope. Was she okay? What happened?

When you arrive at the designated spot, a quiet street away from the hustle and bustle, your eyes scan the area. And then, you see her.

She’s standing in front of you, her back to you, looking distant, as if everything around her feels surreal. For a moment, you almost don’t believe it. But then she turns slowly, her eyes locking with yours, and all the breath leaves your body.

She looks different. Tired. Her clothes are worn, her face a little thinner than you remember, but there’s a fire in her eyes—familiar, but with a hint of something new, something more guarded.

—"Hey..." she says, her voice shaky but soft, as if she isn’t sure how to begin. "I’m sorry for not... reaching out. For disappearing like that. I—"

You cut her off, your voice hoarse, almost desperate.

—"Ashley, where have you been? What happened to you?"

Her gaze falters for a second, like the question hit a place she’s been trying to avoid. She takes a deep breath and finally walks towards you, closing the distance between you both.

—"It’s... a long story. And I don’t expect things to be the same. I’ve been through a lot. But I couldn’t stay away any longer. I needed to see you." She looks down at her feet, almost as if ashamed. "I’m sorry I left without a word. I didn’t want to put you through what I was going through."