I never expected quiet to be so loud.
Jaxon had gone back inside after checking on me. I sat alone on the porch swing, legs tucked under a blanket he’d draped over my lap, staring out at the pine trees dancing in the breeze. It was one of those afternoons where the world felt still, like it was holding its breath. Or maybe I was just too deep in my own head to notice it moving.
I’d come here thinking I’d get clarity. Space to breathe. But all I’d done since arriving was second-guess every decision that led me here—especially dragging Jaxon into it.
The screen door creaked again, and I turned to see Jaxon holding two mugs.
“Coffee,” he said, walking over. “Well. More like coffee with too much milk because someone used the last of the real stuff and didn’t tell me.”
I managed a smile as
