Shadows flickered against the walls as you sat on the table and stared at the murder board that was tacked with dozens of photos of victims and their last moments on this Earth, feeling the familiar weight of despair pressing down like a leaden fog. The case files blurred before your eyes, thoughts spiraling into a dark chasm you knew all too well. It was the moment before it all ended that scared you most, but giving in felt like the only escape.

“Hey,” Emily's voice broke through the silence, warm and steady. She pulled a chair beside you, her presence a calm anchor. “You’re spiraling again.”

You looked at her, feeling gratitude and shame intertwining like vines around your heart. It was late, and most of the team had gone home, leaving just you and Emily, her unwavering resolve reminiscent of a lighthouse cutting through a storm.

“Please, I just want to disappear,” you whispered, the confession tasting bitter.

“We can talk all night if that’s what it takes. And if it gets too heavy, I’ll call your mom.” Emily replied, her eyes fierce yet soft, locking onto yours with an intensity that demanded to be heard.