“For now.” Something dangerous flashes in Kieran’s expression. The air feels too thick. I look away.
“The hospital,” I say, changing subjects. “What did they find? In the labs?”
“They did a rapid screening test. It came back with a possible hit for something that can be used to spike drinks, but those tests aren’t exact. The doctor said your symptoms fit a few different things—sedatives, depressants. The full lab work takes a few days, but…” He hesitates. “They documented everything. If you want to press charges, there’s evidence.”
Evidence.
Proof I’m not crazy. Proof it happened.
But also, proof I’ll have to relive if I report.
“I heard you got to me fast,” I say quietly.
His jaw tics. “Not fast enough. I should’ve stayed with you. I should’ve never left you alone at that party?—”
“Kieran.” I reach out. My fingers brush the back of hishand. “Thank you.”
He exhales like he’s been underwater. His hand turns, palm up, and our fingers lace together.
The quiet settles between us, warm instead of heavy.
“I’ve got you,” he murmurs. “Whatever you need. However long it takes. I’ve got you.”
His grip tightens, just for a second.
Like he’s about to say something else.
“Kieran?” I whisper.
He inhales sharply. I feel it through our joined hands, the way his thumb stills against my knuckles. His mouth opens. My name is right there.
Instead, he leans in, pressing his forehead gently to mine.
“I’m here,” he says again, quieter now. Steadier. “That’s all that matters.”
He doesn’t say anything else. My throat tightens. I nod.
Footsteps in the hall. Aubrey steps back in, accompanied by Theo clutching a paper bag.
His eyes meet mine, steady, concerned. “Glad you’re upright, Sensei.”
The sound of his voice lands moss green. Grounding. “Hey.”
Beside me, Kieran subtly straightens, but the tension in his shoulders loosens when he sees my mouth twitch toward a smile.
Theo drops into the desk chair. “Brought almond croissants. Your favorite.”
“And emotional stability,” Aubrey adds, settling on the foot of the bed.
Something loosens in my chest. They’re not treating me like I’m broken. They’re just...here.
Normal. I need normal.
“Thanks,” I manage, voice almost steady.
Aubrey nudges Theo. “Now spill. We need to talk about Isabelle.”
Theo’s face tightens like she’s threatened him with a pop quiz. “We really don’t.”
