Choices

"Abby."

I drew in a deep, shuddering breath, letting it out slowly. My eyes stayed closed as I concentrated on my breathing.

"Abby. Look at me, sweetheart. Please."

I opened my eyes. My tears had stopped a while ago, but my eyes still felt hot. Kieran hadn't moved from where he'd been since his bombshell,

(by any means)

holding the bars in a white-knuckled grip. The stricken look on his face didn't dissipate the raging storm inside my head, but it did break through a little.

"I'm sorry," I managed. "I-"

"Knock knock!" came a cheerful voice.

     Startled, I turned fast, heart pounding. Rowan whistled as he made his way down the steps. I flicked a quick glance over to Kieran. He looked as tense as I felt. I was certain we were both thinking the same thing: now what?

"Apologies for int……