CHAPTER 80: FIGHT OR FLIGHT

DAMIAN The moment he stepped through the door at the close of the day, Damien felt a sense of unease. The apartment was dark, the only light coming from the kitchen. Damien frowned as he moved further into the room. It was quite strange that Julie wasn't home. Usually, he was always the last to get home. Loosening his tie, he half expected to hear her voice or at least the sound of her moving around; maybe she was up to her tricks again, but the silence was unnerving. "Julia?" Damien called out, his voice echoing through the empty space. No response. He flicked on the lights, revealing a neat but untouched living room. Everything was exactly as he'd left it that morning. Too perfect. Too still. He pulled out his phone, checking for any missed messages or calls from Julia. Nothing. He sent a quick Where are you? Then, trying to shake off the unease, he headed for the bathroom. A hot shower might clear his head. As he stripped off his clothes, his phone buzzed on the counter. Dami