Christopher had been working in the study ever since they returned home. Abigail also checked her emails and completed some unfinished business. She freshened up and came out to the balcony.
The ambiance on the balcony was tranquil, with the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant hum of the city forming a soothing backdrop for Abigail's moment of relaxation. She settled herself onto the egg-shaped hanging chair with a novel in her hand.
She had longed for this moment of respite, a chance to lose herself in the world of words. With the book cradled in her lap, she began to read.
However, the tranquility was abruptly disrupted by the insistent chime of her phone. The shrill ring seemed to cut through the calm like a sharp knife.
She frowned, momentarily irritated by the intrusion. Setting her novel aside, Abigail took the phone from the small stool beside her. The caller ID displayed Elsa's name, and Abigail's heart skipped a beat.