As soon as they entered her apartment, Mel was seized by a gnawing in her chest. Suddenly, the prospect of being left alone filled her with dread. In minutes she had gone from feeling blissful and content to feeling raw and vulnerable. Upon seeing Mel’s face, Vanessa’s expression softened. “It’s hitting you right now, isn’t it?” Mel nodded. She felt like her insides were spilling out. “You’re okay.” Vanessa gathered Mel in her arms and planted a kiss on the top of her head. “You’ll feel better once you’re in bed.”
