Nightfall
The room was dimly lit, the only source of light coming from the moon filtering through the curtains. The bottle of whiskey in my hand was nearly empty, its contents swirling like the storm raging within me. I couldn't feel anything anymore—at least, that's what I told myself. The alcohol numbed my body but not my heart.
I stumbled to the edge of the bed, slumping down heavily. My head throbbed, but the pain felt almost welcome compared to the crushing weight in my chest. Grandma's laughter echoed in my mind, her warm smile flashing before my eyes. I tried to drown her memory with another swig from the bottle, but it only made her absence louder, sharper.
The door creaked open, and I didn't bother looking up. I knew it was Aria. She was the only one who dared to face me in this state.
"Magnus," her voice was soft but carried a firmness that always made me feel seen. I didn't respond.
