Jeremy suddenly heard a dull crash, like a heavy object falling to the ground

He thought Madeline was smashing things while sulking and became more worried.

“Linnie.” He knocked on the door and called out, “Linnie, are you alright?”

Jeremy asked but did not receive any response from Madeline.

His sudden and restless heartbeat made Jeremy unable to wait any longer. He tried to open the door, but it was locked from the inside.

“Linnie, what are you doing inside? Linnie!”

Jeremy’s voice held