As the day wore on, Anabella tried to focus on the small, comforting routines of her life. She spent time organizing her books, making herself a simple lunch, and sitting by the window to enjoy the view. But her father's message lingered in the back of her mind, an unresolved thread that refused to be ignored.
When her phone buzzed again, she hesitated before picking it up. It was another message from Marcus.
"I know I haven't always been there for you, Anabella. I've made mistakes, and I'm sorry for that. But I want to make things right, if you'll let me."
Anabella stared at the screen, her heart aching with conflicting emotions. She wanted to believe him, but years of neglect weren't so easily forgotten. She set the phone down, deciding to think about it later.
