Alex stroked Chloe’s hair. “It’s okay. It’s okay. It’s all over and I’m here.â€? He whispered to her while guiding her to the couch in his family room. He sat down and gestured for Chloe to lie. She rested her head in his lap and he continued to stroke her hair.

“It’s not over, Alex.â€? She sniffed silently. “There will be a … trial.â€?

Alex hissed. “I forgot about that. Well, I’ll be there for you.â€?

“Thanks.â€? Chloe wiped her nose and Alex reached for a tissue box.

“You’re going to be fine.â€? She nodded instead of answering because the tears were coming faster now.

Why do people cry more when someone tries to comfort them? Alex will never know. He didn’t care though. As long as Chloe was getting better, it didn’t matter.

~

Weeks later, the trial date approached. Alex headed over to Chloe’s house in his dress clothes. Her mother let him in.

Chloe was seated at the kitchen counter, drinking coffee. “You ready?â€? Alex asked her but she didn’t reply. “Chloe?!â€?

She looked up slowly.

“I’m here for you.â€?