Flora stared at the door, her hand hovering over the handle. She had packed her things—slipped her phone into her bag, written the note. But every time she tried to step out, something held her back.

She heard Ni-ki’s footsteps behind her, his voice soft. “I’m sorry. Please don’t leave. I’ll change. I swear.”

Her heart clenched, the familiar weight of guilt pressing down on her. He needs me. He’ll change this time.

“Please,” he repeated, his voice breaking. “I love you.”

She turned, her chest tight. His eyes were full of pain—real pain, she thought, but maybe it was just manipulation. She wanted to say no, to walk away, but her feet felt glued to the floor.

“You don’t know what you’re doing to me,” he whispered, stepping closer.

“I’m sorry,” she said, her voice barely a whisper. “I’m just so tired.”

Ni-ki’s hands cupped her face gently, like he hadn’t thrown her into the wall just a few days ago. “I promise, I’ll do better. Just stay.”

And despite everything, she stayed. The door closed behind her, locking her in with him once again.