Chapter 21. Eyes Are Red

Lexcis Aeden

"Chantel, look at me," I added, my voice gentle but firm.

She gradually glances up, and her eyes are red. The tears have stopped flowing, but it still pains me to see her like this. I reach out, brushing a strand of hair from her face, offering a reassuring touch.

No one can hurt her but me. She's mine, and mine only.

"You can do this, okay? You're not alone; I'm here," I said, reassuring her, my voice filled with determination.

She frowns, and I want to smooth the crease between her brows.

"Now stand up, okay?" I said to her, offering a supportive hand.

"I'm getting bored. And your teammates are hanging on by a thread. Literally." The man is laughing and mocking us, especially her.

"Come on, Chantel," I urge, refusing to let the taunts get to us.

She slowly breathes in and out, an imitation of the breathing exercise I had done with her.

I h