Olivia dropped the torn fabric onto the floor, closed her eyes, and took a deep breath. The ripped dress felt like a symbol of everything she was carrying inside.

Still breathing unevenly, she left the bathroom and returned to the bedroom wearing only her lingerie. The chill of the air-conditioning raised goosebumps on her skin, clashing with the heat of the tears that wouldn't stop falling.

She lay down on the massive bed, which somehow felt like a desert. It was empty. She wrapped her arms