The date

(Lina)

I saw Kieran and I could feel my heart beat a little faster. It was strange how just seeing him made me feel different like I wasn't as alone. 

He'd been there through so much, never judging, just supportive in a way that I'd never had before. Especially after the divorce, when it felt like people around me were so quick to take sides, to decide how they felt about me. But not Kieran. He didn't care about the rumors or what anyone else thought. To him, I was just… me.

I'd been on my way back from the kitchen when I saw him, leaning casually by the entrance. 

His hands were tucked in his pockets; his head tilted just enough so he looked calm but curious like he'd been waiting just for me. When his eyes landed on me, his expression softened, and he gave me that easy, comforting smile that always made me feel like I could breathe a little easier.

"Isabella," he greeted me, his voice warm. "Still working hard to win over the palace?"