12. A New Courage

A flash of lightning illuminated the room, followed by a distant rumble of thunder. The wind picked up, carrying with it some nostalgic feelings.

I moved away from the window as the rain began to fall. I climbed the bed and buried my body under the duvet. My gaze remained fixed on the window sill, observing the raindrops relentlessly pelting against it.

As the rain continued to pour, it seemed to soften the earth and stir up the remaining long-buried feelings I had for Brandon that I had managed to push aside. Tears welled up in my eyes as I recalled Rachel's threat and how defeated her words made me feel.

Suddenly, my phone chimed, indicating a new message from my Watsapp. The voice note began to play and Brandon's voice filled the room.

Brandon blocked my number when he left Malmö two years ago. I couldn't believe he just unblocked my number.

"Jewel, are you still awake? I need to ask, did Rachel hit you? Please reply if you're awake," Brandon said. There was a faint tremor in h