It’s been a long day, with the trip and everything.
I think I’d rather just go home, if that’s okay with you.”
But I’m not buying it.
“Look, I don’t want to push you,” I say, more gently this time. “But Maddie asked me to keep an eye on you.
And I saw how you reacted when Ian walked in. You went pale, like something had really shaken you.”
I hesitate, then add, “If he did something, even if it was years ago, it still matters. I just want to make sure you feel safe. Especially here.”
He looks up at me like I’ve just grown a second head.
And honestly? I can’t blame him.
This isn’t like me. I don’t usually jump to conclusions. And Ian didn’t exactly seem threatening…
But the way Sebastian looked, something was off.
And in that moment, I was ready to throw down if it meant keeping him safe.
Keeping him safe?
Okay, that’s… odd.
How is it possible I’m already thinking of Sebastian as someone who needs protecting?
We barely know each other, and yet here I am, on edge, ready to fight half the pub if I have to.
He just looked so vulnerable for a moment. And that same strange stirring came back, tight in my chest, unfamiliar, impossible to name.
There’s a pressure building in my chest, and I don’t even know why. It's not mine to feel.
I’m about to storm out and say something to Ian, anything, when Sebastian gently places a hand on my shoulder.
“Remi, can you just listen to me for a second?”
His voice is calm, but there’s a slight edge to it. “Why are you getting so worked up? I told you, Ian didn’t do anything.”
He lifts my hand off his shoulder with quiet insistence, then walks over to the sink. He splashes cold water on his face, breathing deeply. When he turns back to me, he looks more composed, damp curls clinging to his forehead, jaw tight, but steady.
“I know you picked up on how uncomfortable i was.
And I do appreciate you stepping in with that very convenient excuse, i needed the break. And yes, you’re right.
It wasn’t just tiredness.
But I’m not ready to talk about it. Not now.
Just know that Ian didn’t hurt me, and I’m feeling better.
Can we please just go back out?”
I study him carefully.
The colour’s come back to his cheeks, softening the delicate lines of his face. He looks steadier now, even if a part of me keeps circling back, wondering what really happened between him and Ian.
But he’s right. This isn’t the moment. And it’s not my place to push.
