*Ariana's Pov*
“Are you sure you're alright.You don't look so good.” My mom’s eyes were sharp now, concern cutting through her casual tone.
I forced a laugh, too high, too brittle "Water went down wrong.”
I shot a glare across the table at Kian. He didn’t flinch. He just took another slow sip of coffee, eyes half-lidded like he wasn’t the reason my hands were gripping the edge of the chair so hard my knuckles hurt.
The vibration shifted. Slower, more deliberate.
I bit down on the inside of my cheek until I tasted metal. Every muscle in my body locked up, trying to stay still, to look normal. My legs felt like they might give out if I tried to stand.
My stepdad lowered the paper. “You’re sure you’re okay? You look like you’re about to pass out.”
“I said I’m fine!” The words to
