Michael's POV
Allyson refused to meet my gaze. Not even a glance in my direction.
I cut the business call short without explanation. Whatever contract negotiation was happening could wait. My concentration had completely shattered the moment I saw her.
My phone fell to my side as I watched her ascend the staircase like she was carrying invisible chains around her ankles.
Her posture spoke of defeat - shoulders curved inward, arms clutching those shopping bags as if they were lifelines preventing her complete collapse.
The way she stumbled slightly at the final step sent a sharp pain through my ribs.
I had witnessed her wounded before, but never quite like this.
This wasn't just hurt. This was complete devastation.
Even without a clear view of her face, I knew her eyes were puffy and tear-stained. The evidence was written in every slow movement she made.
