*Michael*
Shelby’s eyes widened when she saw the "Blocked Number" flash on her phone screen. Fearful thoughts flooded my mind—was our family in danger? Without a second thought, I commanded her, “Put it on speaker and answer it.” To the driver, I said,, “Pull over so we can hear it."
My heart pounded as Shelby fumbled for the speakerphone button. The sound of ringing echoed in the car.
Shelby's hands shook, and she stared at the unfamiliar caller ID on her phone. After a few deep breaths, she pressed the answer button with a trembling finger and lifted the phone to her mouth. "Hello?" she said hesitantly.
The line was silent for a moment before a gentle woman's voice replied, "Shelby, dear, how are you? Sorry I didn't call from my number, but these past few days have made my husband so paranoid about my safety that I can hardly make a move without him keeping tabs."
Shelby and I smiled, relief evident throughout the car.
