In The Shadow Of Nightmares ll Jenlisa

Chapter 1: The Call for Help

Jennie Kim, a 27-year-old lawyer known for her icy demeanor and sharp intellect, sat at her desk, buried in case files. Her reputation as a no-nonsense, stern professional preceded her, and she wore it like armor, shielding herself from the chaos of the world. The office was silent, save for the occasional rustle of papers and the distant hum of the city outside her window. She thrived in this environment, where logic and precision reigned supreme.

Her phone buzzed, pulling her from her focused reverie. It was her mother. Jennie hesitated for a moment before answering, knowing that her mother wouldn't call unless it was important.

"Jennie, we need to talk," her mother said, concern evident in her voice.

Jennie’s brows furrowed. "What’s wrong?"

"It’s about Lisa. She’s been having terrible nightmares about her grandparents. She’s been crying, scared, and we don't know what to do. Her parents are in Thailand, as usual, too busy with their work. They asked if you could look after her. She trusts you, Jennie. You’re the only one who can handle her."

Jennie leaned back in her chair, memories of a younger Lisa flashing through her mind. Lisa, now 24, had always been a sweet, innocent girl, but the death of her grandparents had left a deep scar. Lisa’s parents loved her but were perpetually caught up in their work, leaving Lisa to fend for herself emotionally. Jennie had always felt a protective instinct towards Lisa, even if she didn’t show it openly.

"Alright, I'll do it," Jennie said after a long pause. "I'll take care of her."

---

The next day, Jennie prepared her apartment for Lisa's arrival. She cleared space in the guest room, making sure it was comfortable and welcoming. Despite her cold exterior, Jennie wanted Lisa to feel safe and cared for. She knew that Lisa needed more than just a place to stay; she needed someone who would be there for her, someone who would help her navigate through her nightmares and fears.

When the doorbell finally rang, Jennie took a deep breath and opened the door. Lisa stood there, looking fragile and vulnerable. Her eyes were puffy from lack of sleep, and she seemed smaller than Jennie remembered. The weight of her grief and fear was palpable.

"Come in, Lisa," Jennie said, stepping aside.

Lisa walked in slowly, her eyes scanning the pristine, modern apartment. It felt cold and impersonal, much like Jennie herself, but it was also a safe haven away from her haunting nightmares. Lisa managed a small smile, but it didn’t reach her eyes.

"Thank you for letting me stay, Jennie," Lisa said quietly.

Jennie nodded. "Let’s get you settled in."

As Lisa unpacked her belongings, Jennie watched from the doorway. She could see the toll that the nightmares had taken on Lisa. The lively, cheerful girl she remembered was now a shadow of her former self, weighed down by sorrow and fear. Jennie felt a pang of sympathy and a renewed determination to help Lisa through this.

---

That night, Jennie was jolted awake by the sound of muffled cries. She quickly got out of bed and hurried to Lisa’s room. She found Lisa thrashing in her sleep, tears streaming down her face, caught in the grip of another nightmare.

"Lisa, wake up," Jennie said firmly, shaking her gently.

Lisa’s eyes flew open, wild with fear. She looked around, disoriented, before her gaze settled on Jennie. Recognition and relief washed over her face, and she collapsed into Jennie’s arms, sobbing uncontrollably.

"It’s okay, Lisa. You’re safe," Jennie whispered, holding her tightly. "It was just a nightmare."

Lisa clung to Jennie, her body shaking with sobs. Jennie could feel the depth of Lisa's pain and fear, and it broke her heart. She had never seen Lisa so vulnerable, so utterly defeated.