Autumn's POV
George and I sat on the stone bench in the park, the air quiet around us. I was still trying to calm my breathing, but at least I wasn’t crying anymore. My hoodie sleeves were damp from wiping my face, and my throat felt tight like I’d been screaming for hours.
He looked at me, then pulled something out of his pocket. “Here,” he said, holding out a small bottle. “It’s a calming drink. Nothing heavy—just herbs and fruit. It helps with nerves.”
I hesitated, then took it. My hands were still shaking a little as I opened the cap and took a sip. It tasted like berries and mint. The coolness helped a bit. I could feel the storm in my chest slowly settle.
“Better?” he asked softly.
“A little,” I mumbled, holding the bottle close.
He leaned back against the bench, arms crossed
