Chapter 8

The silence was deafening; the only sound that could be heard was the rhythmic beat of their hearts. Every breath felt like a struggle. The silence felt like a heavy presence, suffocating them.

He kept his eyes fixed on her, his gaze intense, as if looking for answers in her eyes.

Madison could feel the weight of Liam's stare; the intensity of his focus made her heart race faster.

She adjusted her seat, returning his stare.

"Still waiting for a response, Madison," Liam finally spoke after the long silence. "What is going on? I need to know."

Madison stared into the fading sky painted in shades of gray, concealing her emotions like a mask.

"These past few days have been quite the rollercoaster ride for me, you know," a sad smile tugged at the corners of her mouth, "with challenges that have tested my strength like never before."

Liam could see the pain in her eyes, even though she tried so hard to hide it. He felt his heart racing with sadness.

"Madison, I can't tell for sure what you