Page 81 of Kai
“Hey.”
Just that one word.
Hey.
The way he says it makes something unclench inside me.
“You don't have to be.”
Easy for him to say.
He isn't the one whose heart feels like it's trying to escape through her ribs.
“I'm trying not to be.”
“You're doing great.”
I roll my eyes.
“Now you're patronizing me.”
“Nope.”
“Definitely.”
“Cross my heart.”
The basement apartment finally comes into view.
Small living room.
Bookshelves.
Kitchenette.
A couch that's seen better days.
My sanctuary.
My little corner of the world.
Kai looks around slowly.
Taking everything in.
The books.
The framed family photos.
The throw blanket folded neatly on the couch.
The collection of coffee mugs on a shelf.
“It's nice, Firecracker. It’s very you.”
“What's that supposed to mean?”
His eyes find mine.
