Page 25 of Twisted Thorns

Why were we together? We're from two separate worlds.

He doesn't respond right away, and I debate putting my phone on the other side of the room so I can't chicken out and unsend the text.

I've just closed my eyes when I hear the ding.

We were both born in cages we wanted to destroy.

I stare at the words on the screen until the moon rises high in the sky, casting its glow through my window and illuminating all my shadows.

Chapter 13

Avalina

I need more coffee. I was up way too late last night, combing through everything Kieran sent me. I'm still in shock and my mind keeps replaying all the conversations I’ve had in the past couple of weeks about Kieran and the Calders as I shelve books at the library.

Anger simmers just under the surface as I remember that Iris knew this whole time.

She knew.

And didn't say a word to me.

It makes me wonder if I can trust my sister. What other secrets is she keeping from me?

"Avie!"

I jump in surprise, startled as Mavis lets out a roar of laughter down the row, tossing her brunette curls. "I've been calling your name over and over, but you were lost to the world. Who is it?"

I shake my head in confusion. "Who is who?"

Her nose wrinkles as she grins. "Oh, come on, I know that look. You're thinking about someone." She sing-songs this last part.

"Oh, no, I am not." I protest, but I know the blush rising to my cheeks is giving me away.

Mavis snorts, patting me on the shoulder with a gleam in her eye. "If you say so." She straightens. "I was coming to find you because I was going to go grab some lunch from Jo's. They make the best bacon sandwich, and I could literally kill someone for one right now."

It's my turn to laugh. Mavis is a kindhearted woman, and I can't imagine her being violent towards anyone. "Sure, that'd be great. You know, a BLT sounds good. Just make sure it's with their sourdough bread."

Mavis interrupts me. "Oh, yes. That sourdough bread is to die for."

While Mavis goes to grab our lunch, I move back towards the circulation desk, ready to help any patrons. It's a quiet day, so I pull my phone out of my pocket to quickly check what I've missed. I keep my phone on silent at work, so there's always a phone call or text to respond to.

I'm scrolling through, sending brief replies where I can and deleting the spam when my breath lodges in my throat. It's a text. From Kieran.

I shove my phone back in my pocket so abruptly I almost lose my balance. I take a breath. Shake my head. Pull my phone back out of my pocket. Sigh as I shove it back in again.

"Come on, Avalina, just look at it." I tell myself. Glancing around to make sure the library is clear, I press a shaky finger to the screen to open up the message.

Are you okay?

I blink. That was not what I was expecting. And also something I hadn't asked myself. Was I okay? I don't let myself think about it too hard before I quickly type back.

I'm not sure. It's all a bit overwhelming.

Would it help to talk? Or would you rather I stay away?

I take my time before I respond, unsure of what would actually help. In the end I decide talking would be best.

I think talking would help.

---