“Did you hear that?” Brenda asked, trying to steady her voice. “A baby crying?” Stacey hesitated for a moment, then quickly said, “Oh! That’s just a video I’m watching for my home science project. I’m editing it for a presentation.” Her explanation came with a small, nervous laugh, and she averted her gaze.
Brenda’s shoulders relaxed, though unease lingered in her chest. “Alright, then,” she replied, forcing a smile. “You scared me for a moment.” She turned back to the cutting board, resuming her task. Stacey hovered in the doorway briefly, her fingers fidgeting, before her phone buzzed.