13. The rumors are true

Lost in the tangled corridors of her mind, Jada seemed to drift away, her eyes staring out into the world beyond the tinted windows as she and Chase sat in the backseat.

A crease of worry etched its mark on Chase's brows, his gaze fixed on her, gentle, even as his thoughts stirred beneath the surface.

Unable to bear the weight of the silence any longer, Chase's voice echoed, his words carrying a tender concern. "Are you okay, Jada?"

Slowly, Jada's eyes fluttered open, her gaze breaking away from the world beyond the window for a moment and settled upon the deep concern in his eyes.

With a voice that trembled only slightly, as if betraying the stormy depths of her thoughts, she offered a whispered, "Yes."

Then, slowly, she leaned her head towards him and closed her eyes again, resting it against his shoulder as she took comfort in the way he embraced her.

"I am more than fine. I am happy." Jada whispered, feeling his arm tighten around her, pulling her closer as his fingers trailed