Samuel's heart pounded as the phone rang again, each ring echoing loudly in the confined space of the car. The sound cut through the silence, tightening the knot in his chest. His eyes stayed glued to the screen, the name "Zinnia" glaring back at him. With every ring, his hope flickered, desperate for her voice—anything to reassure him she was okay.
But the ringing stopped abruptly, leaving only silence.
Frustration surged through him. He slammed his fist against the steering wheel. The sharp pain did little to calm him. His breathing became heavy and uneven.
Why isn't she answering? Panic tightened its grip as he leaned back in the seat, trying to think clearly. Something was wrong. He could feel it. His gut churned as her number disappeared from the screen.
