Crossing the Line

NOLAN'S POV

The metallic clink of my Zippo lighter echoed through the living room, sharp and steady, like a drumbeat that matched the restless pounding of my thoughts. Open. Close. Open. Close. The flame barely lasted a second each time before I snapped the lid shut, but the sound filled every corner of the silent house. My hand moved automatically, more out of habit than anything, while my legs s