Chapter 1: Climax
The sound of rain pattering against the window lulled Ivey into a sense of comfort as she poured herself a glass of wine. She was used to the silence, the quiet nights spent alone in her apartment after the end of her long-term relationship. The city outside her window was a blur of neon lights and hurried footsteps, but inside, it was just her, her wine, and the soft hum of her thoughts.
The doorbell rang, a sudden interruption to her peaceful evening. She sighed, pausing mid-pour, and walked to the door. Through the peephole, she saw a familiar face, one she hadn't seen in years.