41. Comfort in Darkness

Marissa spent the day at the bar, unable to shake thoughts of Paula and the daunting task of confiding in Efrain. As night fell, she made her way to his house, heart pounding with anxiety and hope. With every step, she practiced what she would say, understanding how important Efrain's support would be for Paula.

When she reached his door, she hesitated, nerves fluttering in her stomach. She knocked, and as the door creaked open, her heart skipped a beat. Luna stood before her, clad in her police polo, and Marissa couldn't shake the worry that gripped her. Even though she trusted Efrain, she couldn't shake the fear that Luna might be more than just a colleague.

She comforted herself with the belief that Efrain wouldn't get involved in affairs with coworkers. She trusted his integrity and their friendship, convinced that Luna's presence was strictly professional.

Luna's words carried a bitter edge as she stared at Marissa's luggage. "Is it you?" she questioned.

Choosing to overlook Luna'