20: Anxiety

ADRIANA

Kian’s footsteps announce his presence even before he gets to where I am.

I don’t turn when he sits beside me on the back porch steps. He doesn’t say anything either for a few minutes. Letting us bask in the calmness of the silence.

I’d left the meeting mum was having about security and how we should tighten ours. Now that she is Xander’s will be actively searching for us. Well, me.

In his usual style, he would see them and pick a fight.

Sitting through all that. Having to hear about him in the place I considered my safe haven. I left so I wouldn’t snap.

Not that sitting out here has helped me feel any better.

I’m just glad I didn’t have to hear his name again. Or anything that has to do with him.

I’m reminded of Kian’s presence when he drags a wicker chair from God knows where, and sets it right beside me.

“This is better.” He motions to the chair. “More comfortable.”

I sigh, offering him a tight lipped smile. I get off the hard steps and get on the chair.

He doesn’t say anyt