The heavy wooden door slammed shut behind Irene, the lock clicking into place with a loud noise that echoed loudly down the dark hallway. Irene practically fled up the cellar stairs as fast as she could, her chest heaving as she stumbled out into the cold, grey morning light of the abandoned house.
She threw herself into the driver's seat of her car with so much force, the car jolted, slamming the door and locking it instantly as if Azaria could somehow break through the thick door that was made of hardwood and iron. Shaking violently, Irene jammed her keys into the ignition, reversed out onto the overgrown dirt track, and tore away down the quiet country road, her mind racing at a terrifying speed.
As the trees blurred past her windows, she replayed her conversation with Azaria over and over in her head, every word burning like acid against her thoughts.
You're in love with him.
