x
Evan woke to the roar of a vacuum, its droning hum slicing through sleep like a buzzsaw. He blinked against the light, dragging himself from the murky warmth of dreams. His limbs felt heavy, cemented to the mattress. Every part of him begged to stay still.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ58GIoBIgcz
He stretched-slow, reluctant-trying to shake the fatigue that had settled deep in his bones.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVtE60ZQQ0l
His room greeted him like a bad memory. Clothes everywhere. Empty takeout boxes on the desk. Half-drunk water bottles balanced on old textbooks. The mess wasn't just physical-it echoed the chaos in his head.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBL7WMFICF5
He stood in the doorway, staring at it all. A slow breath filled his lungs. Tight.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5IPIdCek5k
God, this place looks how I feel.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEHqYidNZTM
Rubbing sleep from his eyes, he trudged to the bathroom. No better there. Toothpaste crusted the sink. Razors knocked over. Shampoo bottle caps gone missing. But something shifted in him-a flicker of resolve.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyiUUkOTk2J
He started with the sink.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrgc0gmLBMw
It was small, almost pointless. But it felt like something. Like control. A single square inch of sanity.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRDhyUthJAj
Once the bathroom was clean, he turned back to his room, steeling himself like it was a war.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2RvkjanzRn
Piece by piece, he told himself. Just move.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6pqPqFnKao
Like training for a marathon, he thought, already rolling his eyes.
Except there's no finish line. Just a mountain of laundry.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYrqTMhVfk7
""Evan!" His mom's voice cut through the silence like a blade.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡps0CwphPx6
He blinked, still caught in his own thoughts. "Yeah?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9WGtQ4wGpP
"Can you come downstairs and help me with something?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsj2F7RGwUm
With a sigh, he headed down, each step creaking underfoot like a countdown. When he turned the corner, he saw her struggling with a fallen bookshelf-half its contents spilled across the floor like casualties of war.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwqNLId10IJ
"Can you help me lift this?" she asked, breathless but determined.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWlg5ITd7AT
"Sure thing, Captain Chaos," Evan said, crouching beside her. "We winging this, or you got a floor plan for Operation Re-Shelve?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYL0Ax0qz1w
"Lift with your knees!" Essiya chirped from the couch, mid-bite of cereal.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO0Wwqi3v8b
Together, they heaved the shelf upright. Once it was back in place, his mom knelt to start organizing the mess.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQLqIyTtIR6
"I've got the rest," she said with a wave, already reaching for the first scattered book.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFyIGYKsmi8
Evan nodded, turning to head back upstairs, grateful for the excuse to disappear again.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5HltYuyYPX
As Evan reached the bottom of the stairs, his mom called out, "Hey-don't you have a flight to Ohio tomorrow?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvgYiFPtBHE
"Technically," he said, hesitation creeping into his voice. "Assuming it's not canceled because of the earthquake. But... after everything, I'm not sure I'm going."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFBrP0jKAMf
She stepped closer, concern etched into her face. "Oh, snickerdoodle, no." Her voice rose with urgency. "You need this trip. After everything that happened? You deserve a break."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPJPOpmCR1E
Her eyes softened. "It's been what, almost a year since you saw Kyra? Just think how happy she'll be when you finally hug her again."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4OULkykacH
Evan scratched the back of his head, avoiding her gaze. "Yeah... but you've got a wrecked house, and Donovan-what if he wakes up and I'm not here?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtTcZK5FIj8
She placed a hand on his shoulder, steady and warm. "You'll do the heavy lifting today. I'll manage the rest. And Bubby?" She smiled faintly. "He'd want you to go. You being here isn't going to change his recovery."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfdzZaSHLUR
He shifted his weight, torn. "I just... I want to be here when he wakes up."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw1yseG2bnI
"I know, sweetheart. And whatever you choose-I support it. Just don't stay back out of guilt."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGNytcZG3VP
He nodded slowly. "I'll think about it."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzPlB9H6re3
She gave his shoulder a final squeeze, then smirked. "If you do go, clean your room first. I'm not stepping foot in there. I wouldn't know if the mess was from you or the earthquake."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN5bWtDMbVZ
"Yeah, because that's just the kind of vacation my room needs. An archaeological dig," Evan shot back, rolling his eyes at her teasing.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFHEN2WV6D9
Back upstairs, Evan resumed the war against his room.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk6B08NdD6a
Eventually, he reached the TV and computer-the final boss. A wave of dread hit him.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlWmK6zqDI0
Please don't be broken, he thought. I can't afford to replace either.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTOXMjrjwt8
He knelt beside the mess of cords, gently untangling the knot of plastic and dust. His hands moved carefully, almost reverently, as he reconnected each cable.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZvgtX6lOJZ
Heart pounding, he hit the power button.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvAZbvZ1HaB
Boop boop beep.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJmUiC99Dg1
"Oh thank God," he breathed, slumping with relief as the screen flickered to life.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQdr0ubJrrw
He dropped into his chair and launched his game, hoping to drown out the swirl of anxiety in his chest.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEqaJkVBray
Then-buzz. His phone lit up.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoBEJWaxTpT
Distraction short-lived.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz9oASzgFbQ
Message received from Kyra
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrmAEbbQIJq
Evan's heart gave a small jolt. He grabbed his phone like a lifeline, swiping it open.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw6M1lqGx1J
Kyra: Hey, mi amor... how are you holding up?
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9SBKzrCeZ5
His fingers hovered for a moment before typing.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdpua22iuY0
Evan: It's tough. Just waiting on updates from the doctors. I feel useless... like I should be doing more.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFBu2ycAXkI
Her response came fast.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUIOIZcfocX
Kyra: Ay, corazón... I can't even imagine.
But you're not useless. You're there. Ready to show up. That's everything.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq0GnUvdGZr
He swallowed the lump rising in his throat.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUn9y0d9WUJ
Evan: I just... I don't know how to sit still like this. Knowing my brother is just lying there, not knowing if he's gonna wake up... it's messing with me. I feel like I'm spiraling.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYs8vRSgSbB
Kyra: Papi, breathe. One moment at a time. Okay? Your brother's tough-igual que tú. You just focus on being there. I'll be right here, cheering for you every second. You don't have to carry all of this alone.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPEAFKyQwMT
He closed his eyes, letting her words sink in like warmth through chilled skin.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9LZI9fGBdn
Evan: Thank you. Just hearing from you... it helps more than I know how to explain.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhUJcoVTWWu
Kyra: Then I'll keep texting you all day if I have to. I wish I could be there. Hold you. Kiss your face. Tell you it's gonna be okay-in person.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW90RLWieNa
His thumb hovered for a second, then:
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdUtleF8age
Evan: I wish you were here too. You always make everything easier just by being around.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWHRppWpw3i
Kyra: Pues... I'm sending the biggest hug right now. Like, two arms, a leg, and my whole heart wrapped around you.
Did you feel it?
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYRkxabalzR
A chuckle escaped him-soft but real.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP82RmfM6ww
Evan: I did. And it actually helped.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM7UKYCeI0Q
Kyra: Good. 'Cause I love you. Like, fr fr. You're mine, Evan. And you're not doing this alone. Not on my watch. You deserve peace. Even in chaos.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0O8SbIwrZ1
He stared at the screen for a few seconds, then sat up straighter.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1gOJg9mfnL
Evan: I think I need to see you. I want to be with you. I'm taking my flight tomorrow.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvpJml1WRSE
There was a beat of silence. Then-
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7glONStMjv
Kyra: ... Wait ... For real?
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR7SycQLnVP
Evan: Yeah. I've been going back and forth, but... I made my decision. I want to be near you. I need that right now... I need you right now.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjQM7S8y8Wt
Kyra: Mi cielo... Don't get me twisted, I ache for your touch. But you sure? I don't want you to feel like you're leaving your brother behind.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlPsHPdACdQ
Evan: I'm sure. My mom supports it. And Donovan... he'd want me to go. Staying here won't make him better. But being with you? I think it might help me.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbjI1GeEXFb
Her response came slower this time. But when it did, it made his chest tighten.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPBkVUuY2ui
Kyra: Okay... then I want you here, baby. I want to be in your arms so bad it hurts.
But even more than that I want you to feel whole again. So yeah... come. I'll be waiting. With open arms and maybe a lil' booty shake at the airport. But only if there's no grannies watching. You're my home, Evan. Even when the world feels like it's falling apart.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZ1aYANkDi
His smile grew without him realizing.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkaRDMGToCw
Evan: I love you, Kyra. So much.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwkXs2FbFQs
Kyra: I love you más. And when you get here, we're gonna get your head right, eat way too much food, and binge-watch dumb cartoons until the world makes sense again... And I'll drain out every worry you have 😜
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMLYap61NVM
Evan: I can't wait.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL2fcWnMkVz
Kyra: Now go clean your room before TSA finds that sock colony under your bed.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7F1LvKjMPO
Evan: Already on it, Coach.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJQwzFmeTjV
Kyra: That's my man.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtcJq97NnPI
Evan set the phone down on his chest, a rare peace settling into him. For the first time in days, the weight didn't feel so crushing.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrj8pnt7cRa
Tomorrow, he'd be on a plane.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwfgSar4Ev3
Tomorrow, he'd finally have her in his arms.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡis3WSzxweO
And neither of them would be holding back.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAGjPTceevO
After finishing his room, Evan spent the rest of the afternoon helping his mom with the real damage-hauling fallen debris from the yard, lifting busted furniture inside, and resetting what little structure the earthquake had left behind. All the while, Essiya lounged nearby with a bowl of chips, barking orders like a pint-sized drill sergeant.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzlx13HSWU8
"Soldier! That shelf's still crooked!"
"Don't forget the porch, Private Evan!"
"Permission to hydrate denied until you lift that couch!"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFzcVB6psGg
Evan groaned through most of it, but deep down, the normalcy felt good. Like something to hold onto.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡccscFkJEii
---
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRZtvsFrESx
As night settled in, a quiet thrill hummed beneath Evan's exhaustion. He'd done so much-cleaned, packed, made peace with his decision-but now the weight of it all pressed down like wet blankets.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW3cFxb7RxA
His body ached, but his mind buzzed with tomorrow.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLP3nCF0YK8
Kyra.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt865ci1Mrj
He could already see her-arms open, eyes wide, that half-smirk she wore when she was trying not to cry. The idea of holding her, of being held back, felt like oxygen after a day spent underwater.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGTbHTNnXO
He grabbed his phone, thumb hovering over the keyboard before typing:
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjnUMmayf5W
Evan: Goodnight, Kyra. I can't wait to see you.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkbYnAb3Jq5
He hit send, then set the phone on his chest, staring at the ceiling as his breathing slowed.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR0B3GJb3vh
Then his phone rang.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgPCt6xDBoB
Private Number.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡanapJLzMFW
His thumb hovered over the decline button. He almost ignored it.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ALbOf6iz0
Almost.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXj9Hl2keSr
"...Hello?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOz0RkohtBN
The voice on the other end was low. Calm. Too calm.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYfCc7ZnKTK
"Do not take your flight tomorrow, Mr. Pettway. Stay in Florida."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBF2y8rGStG
Evan sat upright instantly, adrenaline flooding his veins. His heart hammered against his ribs.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ZVXXWAGF3
"What? Who the hell is this?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaszvSuagqr
"I'll repeat it once.
Do not get on that plane.
If you care about your family... you'll listen."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZMAgcDAFCg
His stomach dropped.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdbPs9HxHLp
"Is this-" his voice cracked. "Is this Kyra's ex?! Is this some kind of joke? How the hell did you get my number?!"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMy0FMpp2i2
Silence.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡskgMBMzWJ0
Then-
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtjRBzTESoW
click.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4pLNkilUEZ
The call ended.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB4qnP9RHFN
Evan yanked the phone from his ear and stared at the screen.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN77bgr8oyJ
No missed call.
No caller ID.
No history.
Like it hadn't even happened.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ05egisEk5I
His hands trembled. A chill crawled up his spine, like someone had just walked across his grave.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlrnoF89VP4
He stood, pacing. Checked the windows. Locked the door. Nothing. No one outside.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG2sr2AjQY7
But something had changed.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLeLIEGSJwf
Tomorrow had been filled with hope. With warmth. With her.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJY1KfnV6q7
Now it felt... poisoned. Unsteady. Like a trap had been quietly set and he'd just heard the spring click into place.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQpIkgAt5lh
Still gripping the phone, Evan sat on the edge of the bed, trying to steady his breathing.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs3TrN6zUWj
It had to be her ex.
Yeah. That obsessed, jealous lunatic. The guy she blocked on everything.
Probably found a spoofing app and decided to mess with me.
Creepy, sure. But not some government conspiracy. Just a weirdo with no life.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAWrqr7rNL3
He lay back slowly, still uneasy, but just enough convinced to let the fear dull into frustration.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsVjmmkZf0l
Eventually, his eyes closed-not from peace, but from overload. Sleep came, broken and restless.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuwggtdVXgR
And somewhere in the background, the silence hummed like a held breath.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEDYHUWQY9V
The next morning, Evan was jolted awake by the sharp buzz of his alarm. It cut through the fog of sleep like a blade, dragging him out of a dream he couldn't remember.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡznaqQtyOb8
He blinked against the soft sun filtering through the blinds. The red digits on his nightstand glowed:
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzTcLa4W2Bq
10:00 AM.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyJFtzpxkM9
He exhaled, rubbing his face.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr9y5KUhFnc
Flight's not until three. I've got time.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ04NjwdmgCU
A ripple of excitement fluttered in his chest, cutting through the sleep haze. Just the thought of being with Kyra again made it impossible to lie still.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqbsp1mC1Ib
He rolled out of bed and shuffled into the bathroom. The chill of the tile bit at his feet as he splashed cold water over his face. In the mirror, his hair was a mess, his eyes half-lidded-but underneath the sleep, there was something lighter. Brighter. A flicker of boyish anticipation he hadn't felt in weeks.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ49w7aVZ639
After brushing his teeth, he stepped back into his room and zeroed in on the open suitcase. Clothes already half-packed. The scent of clean laundry hung in the air. He grabbed a crisp shirt, smoothing it flat-when-
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbxB6CSUGYC
Knock knock.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJSIcckDlOy
"Come in," he called, glancing at the door.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7wGlq5RPn2
The door swung open, and his mom stepped in, balancing a plate piled with steaming food.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ26BmipgWc3
The smell hit first-scrambled eggs, buttered toast, just the right hint of pepper. For a moment, the stress faded. The hospital, the call, even the packing-all of it drifted into the background.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpGmzQTHYWA
"Morning, honey! Brought you some breakfast," she said, her eyes sweeping the room. Then, in mock shock, "Wow. Your room's clean. Like... actually clean. Did I walk into the wrong house?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVrbX3EvlkU
Evan chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, I figured it was time for a small miracle."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgvC9o5YQIR
She laughed and handed him the plate. The warmth in his hands grounded him more than he expected.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0V87p0jikf
He sat on the edge of the bed, taking a bite of the eggs. Rich, familiar. Comfort food in the purest sense.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlEKvL4CpOm
His mom's gaze drifted to the open suitcase.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuKYkMP1uwy
"Ooh-you're going!" she lit up. "I'm so glad, baby. You really deserve this. What changed your mind?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfeNGwMNeY8
Evan shrugged with a small grin. "What you said last night stuck with me. A little peace sounds good right now."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLpyUMMNjfL
Her face softened. "Well, I hope it's everything you need and more. And don't forget-I want pictures. Cute ones. Not those weird zoomed-in food shots you always take."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTUfkjIFXzJ
"Deal," he laughed. "Thanks, Mom. For the food... and everything."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXUuwPOU5MY
She gave his shoulder a squeeze before heading out, leaving the scent of breakfast and her warmth behind.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeLqViB22WL
As he settled in to eat, the simple act filled more than just his stomach. It brought a quiet kind of peace. Warm eggs, buttered toast, and the calm before travel. Still, he couldn't resist checking his phone.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFKfZn1sF7j
His fingers danced across the screen as he shot off a text:
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5cNeRFG8QP
Evan: Good morning, beautiful!
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtK8MooCuBt
Her reply popped up almost instantly:
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZJgY4Ojvf1
Kyra: ¡Buenos días, guapo! Hope you slept okay, papi.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0pT3ydaeBG
A grin crept across his face.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡczLou6Q10N
Evan: I did! I'm so excited to see you today.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQa14PtK6j9
Kyra: Ay Dios mío, me too! What time's your flight again?
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPtFNChCOVK
Evan: Around 3.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGVzdLzMeJ1
Kyra: Perfecto. Gives me time to shave my legs, pick an outfit, and maybe not panic-clean the whole apartment, haha. Can't have you thinking I'm messy.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ80f2i9rzED
Evan: You? Messy? Never.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCxIAxzH4vg
Kyra: Pffft, you don't know the struggle, mi amor. I'm fighting for my life over here just to look chill.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVi3OF0YFPW
Evan laughed under his breath, leaning back against the headboard as anticipation bubbled up.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4DvUYKiXwD
Evan: I'm gonna finish packing now. I'll text you when I'm on the plane.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTM18Gqx19a
Kyra: Okaaay! Text me the second you're sitting down! I wanna track your flight like the loca I am.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbP7aChOXVB
He could practically hear the sparkle in her voice-the way her words danced with that playful, spicy edge only she had.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaZxxHJqPa7
And he loved it. Every bit of it.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1SS9HQ6OBe
The next hour blurred into a flurry of packing, checking, and double-checking. By the time Evan zipped his bag shut for the final time, the clock flashed 1:30 PM.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdDZmmkIyW8
His stomach twisted-not from nerves, but from the sharp realization of how fast the time had flown.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLYmdCcPfb6
"Shit."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdBqpvssjRV
He grabbed his bags and rushed downstairs, arms overloaded like a one-man circus act.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKdRPheAaf9
"Hey, Mom! It's a quarter till two-I think it's time!"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlCS4A1gTDe
"Okay, honey! Be right there! Did you pack your toothbrush?" she called from the kitchen.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡptYPNVSEgn
Evan exhaled through a half-laugh, half-groan. "Yes!"
He shook his head, smiling. No matter how old he got, she never missed the essentials.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMoAbph9aY4
They loaded into the truck-him at the wheel, his mom in the passenger seat, and Essiya strapped in the back with a juice box.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvhN3IkasKl
As Evan started the engine, the familiar opening chords of The Outfield's "Your Love" spilled from the speakers.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ69rnnRqlPb
He smirked. "No way. I haven't heard this song since I was, like, ten."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLU4EsP0m0a
His mom tapped the dash. "Always was your favorite when it came on the radio."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh6wSzOF1R9
The warm nostalgia washed over him-but then a chill crept in, uninvited.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvEHNt0q7D3
"Hey... uh, I didn't mention this last night, but..." He hesitated, knuckles tightening slightly on the wheel. "I got a weird phone call. Private number. Some dude telling me not to get on my flight. Said, 'If you care about your family, stay in Florida.'"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4MWUEZ6lDN
The mood in the truck shifted.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkeuHAAKk4k
"What?!" his mom gasped, sitting up straighter. "Why didn't you tell me?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiFJQUE4AGv
Evan waved it off. "I figured it was just Kyra's crazy ex. She told me he was obsessive. Probably spoofed a number to mess with me."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPykDJtWTgS
Her brow furrowed. "Even if it was him, that's not funny, Evan. That's threatening. You need to be careful-don't ignore stuff like that."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxjji34AQfO
From the backseat, Essiya chimed in, mouth full of granola bar. "He probably just mad 'cause Tío Evan got the baddie!"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAAJdrYmeYc
Evan snorted, glancing at him in the rearview. "Kid, don't gas me up. You're gonna make my head explode mid-flight."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSIJogLcqbN
Essiya shrugged. "Not my fault you out here stealin' hearts like a villain."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhGLb4fz59V
They all laughed, the tension breaking just enough to let the music slip back in.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt2J590G5mj
The rest of the ride passed in a blur-last-minute reminders from his mom, jokes from Essiya, and the quiet buzz of anticipation beneath it all.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoUhGrld4cm
At the terminal, Evan pulled his luggage from the trunk and turned to face them. He hugged his mom tightly, letting it linger longer than usual. Then he crouched to hug Essiya, ruffling his hair.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrxc3sCFmjn
"Be good," Evan said.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx9JMhFj6N1
"I'm always good," Essiya smirked. "Just not boring."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiiWvTPmcWq
"Have fun, alright?" his mom murmured, giving his arm a squeeze.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6A5ppF8vTV
"I will, Call me if you get any news about Donovan. And you, Evan turned to essiya with a grin. "Take care of my mom, little man."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv1zEocjuem
"She's in good hands, big boy." he said, flexing his arms.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLZsXlB0Olt
As Evan turned toward the sliding doors, the excitement finally hit full force.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfYcxHdIXnt
He was really going.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1ORexFlXKo
Inside the airport, Evan arrived with time to spare-just over an hour before boarding. His stomach growled, and the warm scent of fresh bread pulled him straight to a nearby Subway. He ordered an Italian sub, extra vinegar, and took a seat near the window, the sharp tang waking his senses with every bite.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCcNazftmEG
As he chewed, his eyes drifted across the flow of travelers-families wrangling toddlers, businesspeople glued to laptops, sleepy tourists dragging suitcases. Then something-or rather, someone-caught his eye.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhtdXJFwhUW
No way.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjPSvI0DwsG
He squinted. A woman sat across the food court, cradling a bundled baby in her arms.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm5Q0WNOvsB
"Karen?" he said aloud, rising from his seat.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaXvuCzk1wD
He crossed the room with a grin tugging at his lips. "Hey! Funny seeing you here."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfr5GuMRt0p
She looked up, blinking at first-but then her expression lit up. "Evan?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡON3sKR7MrY
She shifted the baby in her arms, revealing a familiar cute face with a teddy bear hat and a hint of white gauze peeking from under it.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAuw6vBuHpb
"Wow," she smirked, "already in trouble? What'd you do this time?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvxvw7nA2f4
He laughed. "Nothing illegal today, promise. I'm headed to Ohio."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgO8twH12Sc
Karen's eyes widened. "No way-me too!"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZPmd5DhGB
"That's wild," he said, genuinely surprised.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxQfQDXdH08
"We're flying back home. Little Adam here's excited to see his dad-he had to stay behind for work," she added, looking down at her baby with a soft smile.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYoZbtWYmQ0
Evan smiled back. "He looks good. I'm glad he's doing okay."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhfdMeUSZiz
"Thanks to you," she said, her tone more sincere now. "I don't know what I would've done if you hadn't stepped in that night."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWi3QcWRAxe
He shrugged. "You would've done the same for me. Just glad it worked out."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSqMh3DspPF
As he turned to head back to his table, she reached into her coat pocket.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS2rZCqfuZx
"Wait-here," she said, handing him a slip of paper. "That card I gave you was my office line. This is my personal number. If you-or someone you care about-ever needs help, just reach out."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAeOZaV8QFh
They exchanged numbers, shared another smile, and Evan returned to his half-eaten sandwich, the unexpected reunion leaving a soft warmth in his chest.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdDgxlkbIrb
After finishing his meal, he made his way to the gate, scanning the rows of seats. He spotted Karen again a few rows over and gave her a friendly wave. She waved back, Kevin nestled quietly in her arms.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZLPFxKOumY
The intercom buzzed.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKWxRwaHH3k
"Flight 227 now boarding, rows 10 through 20."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡecHc7mVGn3
Evan pulled out his phone.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWfsxcERsEe
Evan: Heading on the plane, babe. I'll see you in a couple hours.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡramUAI0EDZ
Kyra: I can't waaaaait! Safe travels, mi amor. Hurry up and get here so I can squeeze you.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw94XSaNIPe
As the plane lifted off, Evan leaned into the window, watching the city shrink beneath him. Buildings, cars, streets-all of it reduced to tiny moving pieces. The knot in his chest twisted tighter. Excitement for Kyra tangled with anxiety for his brother.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWFgdp7sRsQ
They should be calling with news today... maybe tomorrow.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5tmotpsn1s
He slipped in his earbuds, switched his phone to airplane mode, and closed his eyes. Calling on Angels by Train filled his ears, the soothing melody wrapping around his nerves. Slowly, his head tipped back against the seat. His breath evened out. Sleep came easy.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp60tAKTnJW
Until it didn't.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBdiLbaeJQF
A buzz jolted his pocket.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhHdk0NgvCc
Frowning, he pulled his phone out. Airplane mode was on... right?
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiCCjS3Xwi6
A single message blinked on the screen-from an unknown number.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj1F2fZk5Lv
"I warned you, Mr. Pettway."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJxtULroQRl
Evan stared at it, heart skipping.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡip63h6rryK
His jaw tightened.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuwqgdvrCYI
Without thinking, he typed out a reply.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9z7Dsh2VCn
"Don't be mad 'cause I'm in Kyra's guts, motherfucker."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7IaTXpA8Hv
He smirked bitterly, thumb hovering over send. And then-click.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc2W0nTkio5
The message vanished.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpgR0cj8rbk
Not delivered.
Not unsent.
Gone. Completely.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzjg4Oa2u2b
"What the hell..."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAPa0FjmRsS
He refreshed the screen. Nothing. The notification, the number-it had disappeared like it never existed.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHNErQaGL2T
He sat there for a second, brows furrowed, trying to make sense of it.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYE60JYY7fn
"...Probably just a glitch," he muttered, more to himself than anyone.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnBdby7QiJ5
Still, he switched airplane mode off, then on again, just to be sure.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGGf5hPwbAm
Sliding the phone back into his pocket, he exhaled slowly, shook off the chill crawling down his spine, and reclined once more.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡptRvTdqMq2
Whatever. He had better things to focus on. Like Kyra.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbngoI973Sy
He closed his eyes, letting the engine's hum and music pull him back under.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMyq4JbPBMk
As the plane descended, the vibrations rattled Evan awake. The captain's voice echoed overhead:
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg0DtIeaS2y
"Welcome to Columbus. We hope you enjoyed your flight."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF7ok5DqxHe
A light round of applause broke out. Evan rubbed his eyes, heart already picking up speed. He grabbed his bag, joined the slow shuffle down the aisle, and stepped into the crowded terminal.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOiS8braqsq
He scanned the sea of faces, lifting his phone to call Kyra-
Until he heard it.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbBX6iV2I2E
That ringtone. Their song. "Me & U" by 'Cassie'
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqMBI2Wvh7P
He turned.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡypDoLRnDNq
There she was, hips swaying dramatically as she strutted toward him, a mischievous grin plastered across her face. "I told you I'd shake it for you, papí," she teased.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ8RTSsXnqu
Evan grinned wide, dropped his bag, and smacked her butt just as she twirled into his arms.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJk4m8Wn8jM
A nearby grandma clutched her pearls and muttered, "This generation... We're doomed."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOuWn9QJVYQ
Kyra pulled him into a deep kiss, her cherry lip gloss sweet against his mouth, her perfume wrapping around him like comfort and fire all at once.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5H7WPLbwsT
"I missed you so damn much," he breathed.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9JN9jOfirk
"Same, baby. So much," she said, eyes glittering.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr4x5lNCJ7T
At her car, Evan went to grab the driver's seat, but Kyra wagged a finger. "Nope. Get in, my little passenger prince. I'm driving. You're officially on vacation now."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtS6bUtzFzE
Chuckling, he obeyed. The moment they hit the road, she reached over and laced her fingers with his.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ80QDh7sWN
"You hungry, mi amor?" she asked, giving him a playful side-eye.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMihJgSnwIW
"Nah, I grabbed a sandwich before the flight."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUspawASb4n
"Straight home it is then," she said, squeezing his hand.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9hte9QY1EN
They cruised through the city, exchanging soft kisses at every red light. But eventually, Evan glanced at her, more serious now.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3tmL6VoBI0
"Hey... can I ask something weird?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwS1hlQxCwP
Kyra raised an eyebrow. "Siempre."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdNokZjpTIf
"I've been getting these creepy texts and calls. Blocked numbers. One told me not to take my flight. I thought it was your crazy ex."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ12Bqbzy22X
She blinked. "Ugh, that cabrón? That's impossible-he's locked up."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw9ob2OaInN
Evan frowned. "You sure?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzzQjan3wLQ
She scoffed. "If he is texting, he must've snuck a damn phone up his culo. Disgusting, desperate little chihuahua."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLQO8zw13pf
He couldn't help but laugh.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhDN32BuXsn
"But don't worry, baby," she added, her voice cooling. "If it's him... I'll find out. Ain't nobody messing with my man, ¿me entiendes? I'll handle it."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKT7tWVO1y9
Evan smiled, the tension in his chest easing just a little.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB6mH9NGvs2
Damn, he missed her.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6GJc8EM6VQ
They pulled up to her house, grabbing his bags between stolen kisses. Inside, the scent of vanilla candles greeted him, wrapping the space in warmth.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRhixZoHaPR
"Make yourself at home, cariño," Kyra said, already heading upstairs. "Let's drop your stuff off."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY5w1ehwGLs
In her room, Evan began unpacking. She leaned in the doorway, eyeing him.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY3xvzthyrJ
"Wine?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy61qtAiBIE
He nodded. "Absolutely."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHcFNvgOybh
"Red or white?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLllF1F0BSO
"White."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK7sPnrXg9R
"Say less." With a wink, she disappeared downstairs after turning on some "You Make Me Wanna" by 'Usher'
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtXqRUmeQbP
She returned with two glasses and a bottle in hand. They clinked glasses, the laughter easy, the tension electric.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ14T7xH1N5h
"So..." Kyra's voice softened, the smile fading from her lips. "Any updates on Donovan?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHqeVpKlPcw
Evan shook his head, the wine glass turning slowly in his hand. "Not yet. They said today or tomorrow, but it's already late. Probably means tomorrow."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTp50UzKVdf
She reached out, touching his arm. "That waiting must feel like hell."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFeLkhjsLAt
"Yeah," he admitted, eyes down. "It's just... every time my phone buzzes, I brace myself."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrvG6nYt8y0
Kyra gave his hand a light squeeze, offering comfort without words.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1oo51K4ozu
"And Essiya?" she asked gently.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI72d4E0QfR
"He's okay. Got a few stitches, but he's up and talking. Mostly worried about his dad, though. Keeps asking if he's gonna be okay." Evan gave a small, tired smile. "When I showed him a picture of you, he asked if you had a little sister."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjcVvOgcfPZ
Kyra snorted. "Pfft, that little flirt. I like him already."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ4a60YfmEH
Their laughter lingered for a second, just enough to cut through the weight in the room. It didn't erase anything-but it made it easier to breathe.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcfw3ky4xZu
"So, anything new with you?" Evan asked.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ18epXDyZKT
Kyra shrugged. "Not really... oh-got new neighbors."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm6w1Ge9a9q
"Oh yeah? Met them yet?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIvbcLI4p4Z
"Yeah," she said, hesitating.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWDUc8Yjjwg
Evan raised an eyebrow. "Are they cool?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYiMu5evQtV
"I think? But they're kinda... off."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuHhCLEtAer
"How so?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwU9BSN3o0S
"Well, the guy says he's married, but I've never seen his wife. When I introduced myself, he asked for my middle and last name. And every time I ask for his, he just changes the subject."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYGBSCq7qEO
Evan's brows furrowed. "Weird."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLJmk8FKqJG
"And intrusive. He asks the strangest shit. Like, the other day, he asked what I thought about secret government operations."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmRwEGBLoo0
"What the hell?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡagLMLv7fyX
"Right? Then he asked if he could camp in my backyard to stargaze because my view is clearer than his. Like dude-you live a block away. Camp in your own damn yard!"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMTiFh3z9c0
Evan leaned forward. "That's definitely creepy."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8JcODsjHjU
"That's not even it," Kyra continued. "He once asked how I'd react if I woke up and everything had changed... and another time, he asked if I ever felt like something huge was happening right under my nose."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡltj9KaRivW
Evan's voice dropped. "That's not just weird. That's calculated."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy2EBQsjqse
"He hasn't done anything threatening," she said. "It's just unsettling."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkgmU09YNAP
"Still," Evan said, jaw tight, "I don't like that he's making you feel watched. I'll talk to him tomorrow."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNgRDMHAeXt
Kyra's eyes widened. "Babe, no beef. I don't want things getting weird."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHAcLqNuFgx
"I'm not starting anything. We'll bring a cake. You can say you're introducing me-just so he knows there's a man in the house."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9CYJrmMOR4
She nodded. "Yeah... that sounds fair. Oh! He did bring me cookies once."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ48hhuJg941
Evan paused. "You ate them?"
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLl5wGH57uA
"Hell no!" she laughed. "I'm not trying to get roofied."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxnjgaahCmu
"Good. We'll feel him out tomorrow. Man to man."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhrZlaRiops
As evening deepened, the room glowed softly, the atmosphere loosening with warmth and laughter. "All Night Long" by the Mary Jane Girls played, lacing the space with a sultry rhythm.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAB6d0DQY3J
Their eyes met, drawn by an invisible current until their lips connected, sparking heat. Her taste was intoxicating, their tongues dancing as hands explored with growing urgency.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm45CDhLulg
"I've wanted you for so long," Evan whispered, breath brushing her mouth.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrrPZgsaHZI
They undressed each other slowly until she paused, eyes gleaming. "Hold on. I have a surprise."
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeoJtsNsXEy
She slipped away and returned wearing a sheer, form-hugging piece that stole his breath. He lifted her with ease, laying her gently on the bed, trailing kisses from her collarbone to her breasts. She gasped, legs wrapping around him, inviting him closer.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFxQx492Cpf
His kisses moved lower, his mouth and fingers in perfect sync as her moans filled the room. Her hands gripped his hair, urging him on until her body trembled and broke beneath the pleasure.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGA6VP0ZBNy
Then he flipped her softly, slipping into her warmth. Every thrust deepened their connection, her gasps matching his rhythm. As he neared his peak, he withdrew, releasing across her skin.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwIcMctgydi
Wordlessly, she knelt and returned the favor, slow and devoted, until every last breath of tension had left them.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1BYCpLF6mr
Afterward, tangled in the sheets, Evan stroked her hair as she lay against him. The world outside faded. In the hush of their shared warmth, only their steady breaths remained-soft, content, and whole.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxnd6nu2btN
Then, suddenly-
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIBO9hwZWc8
WHOOSH
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuqLGxJwBF9
Followed by an ear-splitting roar and the sound of shattering earth. Light exploded into the room with a ferocity that banished shadows with a single sweep.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSzp6Mw8qKe
"What the fuck?!" Their synchronized shout broke the fragile silence, hearts jump-started by an adrenaline surge that pulled them back from the brink of slumber.
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4zGMVDJUFC
26Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDUgrkq4K8O
