CHAPTER EIGHTEEN - WHEN LOVE AND PAIN COLLIDE

Emma's heart raced as she inserted the key into the lock. The familiar click echoed in the quiet hallway. She pushed the door open slowly, holding her breath. The soft glow of a lamp illuminated the living room. Marcus lay sprawled on the couch, his dark hair tousled, one arm draped over his face. Surrounding him were photo albums and loose pictures – memories of their life together. Emma's breath caught in her throat. She moved closer, her eyes falling on a photo of them laughing at the beach, sand in their hair and pure joy on their faces. "Emma?" Marcus's sleepy voice startled her. He sat up, rubbing his eyes. "Am I dreaming?" Emma shook her head, her voice barely a whisper. "No, I... I used my key. I hope that's okay." Marcus nodded, his blue eyes now fully alert. "Of course. I'm glad you did." He gestured to the mess around him. "I was just... remembering." Emma perched on the edge of an armchair, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. "Marcus, I... I don't know where to star