Evan's jaw tightened as he glanced over, his blue eyes narrowing at the way Roxy was curled up in the seat, her knees tucked tightly to her chest. His grip on the steering wheel flexed, but he said nothing at first, letting the silence weigh between them.
71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGeBmjPoL7K
71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡciPCJSE8Ov
"Roxy," he said, his voice calm but edged with a firmness that left no room for debate. "You need to sit properly. Feet on the floor, seatbelt across your lap. NOW."
71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO4MbTyFZ7Q
Her green eyes flicked to his face, and she hesitated, a faint trace of defiance flashing in her expression. But it was fleeting. She slowly unfolded herself, her movements stiff and reluctant, and adjusted her seatbelt.
71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHbWBQB2sfQ
"There," she muttered, her voice cracking again as she leaned back against the seat, staring out the window.
71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhONRrfh0UE
Evan let out a quiet breath, trying to keep his emotions in check. "You know why I asked, right?" he said after a moment, his tone softer now.
71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd7CtQ9VvHl
Roxy didn’t respond immediately, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her skirt. Finally, she nodded. "Yeah," she whispered.
71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTnGfWbqOHi
71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJHP1yob9Jq
Evan sighed quietly, focusing back on the road as he eased the car back onto the highway.
71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqN9iYuD0P0
As the car moved forward, Evan reached over and gently placed his hand on her arm. It wasn’t a grip or a demand. It was just a reminder.
71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaPoqLiJsK0
"I’m here," he said simply, his voice steady.
ns 15.158.61.19da2
