CHAPTER 45 LEAVING FOR ETHOPIA

As Madison's car pulled up to Michael's home, the silence that greeted her was palpable, the front door closed and locked, the porch lights turned off as if the house itself was slumbering in the darkness. She took a deep breath, her mind racing with possibilities as she considered what had happened. Had Michael been called away for an emergency? Or had he gone out to meet with a client? The silence was unsettling, the absence of his presence a heavy weight on her heart as she fumbled with her keys, the door opening with a soft click as she stepped inside. Just as Madison was about to close the door, she heard a faint sound coming from the hallway. It was Michael, his footsteps echoing in the foyer as he strode towards her, his expression weary but relieved as he saw her standing there. "Madison," he said, his voice low and gentle as he approached, his eyes taking in her form as he reached for her hand. "I'm so glad you're home. I was beginning to worry." Michael's concern was evi