-Aria-
The hum of the airplane’s engines was oddly comforting, a low, consistent thrum that contrasted sharply with the chaos raging in my mind. As the plane ascended into the night sky, I felt both a thrill and a dull ache in my chest. Paris awaited me—yet I felt as if I was just escaping rather than embracing a new chapter. I stole a sideways glance at Jamie, who was settled beside me, his demeanor calm yet noticeably somber. He folded the plush blanket around me as though it were a protective cocoon, and for a fleeting moment, I felt safe. But safety was an illusion I was grappling with.
With my headphones snugly in place, I hit play on the playlist that has been my emotional sanctuary. The melody enveloped me like a familiar embrace, but beneath the surface, I felt the tumult of hear
