Chapter 7: Gated Hearts

I hesitated before giving the driver the address, half-expecting him to laugh. But he just nodded, tapping it into his GPS. My stomach twisted with nerves.

Old memories are like tea or wine—brew them again and again, and only numb bitterness remains.

I stared out the window, watching raindrops race each other down the glass. Every turn felt like retracing old footsteps.

"Go to Silver Hollow Estates."

The name sounded fancy, almost unreal. I wondered if I’d even get past the gate.

I looked at the map on my phone, a bit nervous. The driver glanced at me in the rearview mirror:

"Where? Silver Hollow? You need an appointment to get into that gated community. Who do you know there?"

He raised an eyebrow, like he didn’t believe me. I forced a smile, trying to sound casual.

I replied, "Just take me there first."

He looked skeptical, but stepped on the gas anyway.

We rode in silence, the radio playing old country songs. I tapped my fingers on my knee, counting down the blocks.

Rain slid in sheets down the car windows. Soon, the pile of luggage outside my old apartment was far behind.

I watched the city blur by, streetlights glowing like fireflies. My heart thudded in my chest, equal parts dread and hope.