Sumaya's grip tightened on her bag, her pulse quickening as she stared at the black SUV gleaming ominously in the driveway. He wasn't supposed to be back yet. His business trips usually stretched for weeks. Why was he here now?
A sinking feeling coiled in her stomach, tightening like a noose. She yanked her hoodie lower over her face, cursing herself for her carelessness. She hadn't put on the fake bruises today — If he saw her face unmarked, he'd know something was off. Why can't he just travel and never return?
Taking a slow breath, she forced her feet forward, each step feeling like wading through quicksand. When she stepped onto the porch, hesitation gripped her, rooting her feet to the spot. The door seemed to leer at her, as if mocking her fear.
Her fingers trembled on the doorknob before she finally pushed it open. The sight before her stopped her breath.
