Chapter 57

Kelsey POV

The walk to the car is shrouded in a pall I feel I cannot penetrate. The moment the cameras stopped, her smile dropped. She hasn't said a word since. When we reach the car park outside, Frank is ready with the backseat doors open. I curve around the back to slide in from the other slide. Once everyone's inside, the car lurches forward and we make our way home. Avara's eyes are on her trembling, twiddling fingers before her gaze flickers up and her eyes lock with mine.

Her face contorts and I drape my arm around her shoulders so she can draw closer, resting her head on my chest as she clutches onto my forearm.

"You did so good, so proud of you, kid."

She snorts and finds the strength to rise on her own as she lifts herself upright. "Which part?"

"All of it, that Hartley guy is an asshole."

She shakes her head numbly, politely swiping her tears away like they're mascara smudges. "He's just doing his job."