Chapitre 87: Chapter 87 : Why Did He Do It?

George

I hang my jacket on the coat rack. Stepping into the living room, I spot my mom lounging on the sofa. She looks up, her eyes flickering with something I can't quite place. Guilt? Worry? I can't tell anymore.

"Where's Jessica?" I ask, trying to keep my voice steady, casual even. But I know she'll catch the edge, the sharpness I can't hide.

She shrugs, looking at the TV, not me. "I don't know. She didn't say where she went."

The words came out too fast. Too rehearsed.

I narrow my eyes, taking a step closer. "Mom, don't lie to me," I say, lowering my voice. "Where is Jessica?"

Her gaze darts around the room—anywhere but me. She shifts uncomfortably, and I know she's hiding something like she always does.

She fidgets with the corner of a pillow, not saying anything. The silence between us stretches, thick and suffocating.