I pulled the curtain closed. I hugged the pillow close, waiting for the inevitable knock at the door. It was earth-shattering and sent cold shivers up and down my spine. The knocking came again, this time as loud as a bass drum. I gasped and stumbled back against the wall between the couch and door. I am trying to hide the panic inside me, but then I heard the guy cursing softly. I let out a muffled scream when the door opened and loud footsteps echoed through the house.
"Isabella? What are you doing on the floor?" Tears streamed down my face as soon as I realized that Grandma Joe was back.
"What happened to you, sweetheart?" Grandma knelt down beside me.
"I don't know." I didn't want to cause a scene. It was bad enough that I was lying on the floor, having a minor panic attack.
"You're back," I said.
"I forgot something and came back to get it, but now that I'm here I'm not sure if I should leave again."
"No, I'm fine. I'm just a little shaken up, that's all."
"Care to tell me what you're so afraid of?" Grandma Joe placed her hand on my arm to soothe me.
"It was nothing, I swear. I thought I heard something, but I guess I was wrong."
"Are you sure, sweetheart?" I nodded. Yes. She didn't need to know about the strange guy.
"You know what. I'll stay with you. I will give Sue a call. I'm sure she'll understand."
"No, you should meet your friend. I'll be fine." My grandma sighed lowly, shaking her head.
"How about some hot chocolate?" Grandma Joe didn't wait for my answer. She let go of me, getting up. I glared at her for a moment, and then my gaze slowly warmed. I finally nodded. Maybe some hot chocolate wouldn't be so bad.