Axel was sitting in the living room, on a video call with Marlie.
"So, tell me, how did things go with Miria?"
Marlie shrugged.
"Anyway. Really, really short. She said she was fine, but I have some doubts. There was a moment... she was weird."
"How weird?"
"I don't know. Like... too calm. Like she was waiting for me to leave so she could... I don't know, turn into a bat and fly away."
Axel laughed softly.
"So, how are you?"
"Me? I must have just swallowed a coffee that was stronger than my Monday morning motivation. But otherwise, I'm fine."
Axel smiled, but his response was interrupted by a shrill scream.
"What was that?" Marlie asked, worried.
"Isabella. I'll call you back."
He hung up abruptly and ran into the bedroom. Isabella was huddled in a corner, her hair a mess, trembling.
"No... Don't come any closer... stay away from me..." she repeated over and over.
Axel approached slowly.
"Isabella... it's me. Axel. I'm here."
But she backed away again. When he tried to touch her, she screamed, struggling violently.
"Let go! Don't touch me!"
"Isabella! Look at me. It's Axel. I don't want to hurt you. I'm here for you."
She stopped, staring at him with wide eyes.
"Ax... Axel?"
"Yes, it's me."
She burst into tears and threw herself into his arms. He held her close, whispering soothing words, determined to help her face her demons.