The Divorce Prescription

Hailey stared out the window at the heavy downpour, unsure how she would manage to get back to campus in such a storm.

Aileen said, "Hailey, it's too dangerous to go out in this weather. You should stay here tonight."

"Absolutely," Pamela added. "Feel free to stay here and sleep in Aileen's room."

Pamela genuinely liked Hailey, but as an elder, she was mindful of boundaries. She wouldn't allow Hailey to stay in Declan's room.

Hailey nodded in agreement. "Looks like I'm staying with you tonight, Aileen." Aileen beamed and linked arms with Hailey. "Come on, I'll show you to the room."

As Hailey stepped into Aileen's room, Aileen handed her a fresh nightgown. "It's brand new. You can wear it."

Hailey took it gratefully. "Thanks a lot, Aileen."

"Feel free to take a shower first," Aileen suggested.

The house had three small rooms-Pamela's, Declan's, and Aileen's-and the bathroom was shared by all.

Hailey clutched the nightgown as she made her way to the door. "Alright, I'll go take a shower now."

As she stepped out, she bumped into Declan. "Declan, it's pouring outside, so I'll be staying here tonight. Don't worry, I'll behave and won't cause any trouble."

his gaze

him teasingly.

for a moment, clearly taken

"What's with the shouting? Of course, I'm not sleeping with you. I'll be sharing a room with Aileen! Anyway, I'm going

she quickly turned

within him. He knew Hailey was only teasing him, but the way she did it left him feeling unsettled.

boom rang out as lightning struck, followed by

set down his glass of water and rushed to

There was no answer.

Declan grabbed the doorknob and swung the

his throat as he saw her sprawled on

him more than her fall was her state-most of her clothes had come off, leaving large portions of her delicate skin exposed, a sight so

went dry, and

clothes and cried out, "There's a rat!

deep fear of rats. One had startled

quickly turned his gaze away. "Where's the

"It's over there! It's so scary! Declan,

rat scurried out from the corner, heading straight