The Neighbour

TWENTY-SIX

"Are you okay, Ana?"

I'm too stunned to respond.

"Anastasia?"

"She should've stayed back."

"You need to back off,' warns Freddie, blocking this arsehole from my view.

By now, a crowd has gathered around and although I know it's my mind playing tricks on me, I see nothing but a sea of Josh's all mocking me.

"NO!" I scream, desperate to shut him out.

Freddie is the only person I recognise, and I cling to him like he's my lifeline.

"He's here, Freddie. He's everywhere."

"Who is?"

I turn my head, unable to stomach much more of this. "Get me out of here."

Freddie wastes no time in lifting me into his arms, carrying me towards the back exit. Thankfully, no one follows us and when I'm rest assured we're alone, I completely beak down.

"H—he hit me," I cry, shocked.

We're outside, the evening sky acting as my only comfort alongside Freddie's hold.

"I'm sorry, baby. I'm so sorry," he insists.

I run my fingers though his hair and tug a little to get his attention. "Why are you sorry?"

"That punch was meant for me."

"I know it was," I say. "That's why I stepped in."

Freddie looks distraught.

"I don't regret that," I assure, slowly coming to terms with what's happened. "I'd step in front of a thousand Josh's to protect you."

Out of nowhere, Freddie—still carrying me—bursts into tears. I slowly wiggle my way out of his hold and stand directly in front of him.

"Baby, what's wrong?"

He rests his forehead against mine. "I've spent my whole life being a punching bag for other people."

I wrap my arms around his back, needing to absorb some of his pain.

"No one has ever stepped in before."

I pull him closer to me and kiss his cheek, needing him to know I'd do it all again if I had the chance. Protecting Freddie is second nature to me now. He deserves nothing less.

"Thank you for coming to me first," I say.

"Where else would I go?"

I shrug. "You could've beat the shit out of that guy for hitting me."

He nods. "I could've."

"I'm glad you didn't."

He cups my cheeks, angling my face so that I have no choice but to look at him. "I'll never be violent for as long as I live."

My eyes immediately fill with moisture.

"I promise."

"Thank you," I whisper, bringing his body towards mine. As I do this, I look over his shoulder and notice the Eiffel Tower glistening in the background.

"Babe, look!"

He turns his attention towards where I'm looking and smiles. I watch him for a moment, triggered beyond belief by tonight's actions. But despite it all, I find comfort in the flutter of his eyelashes. In the sniff of his cries. The tremble of his hands. Moments ago, I was living my worst nightmare. Now, I'm looking at my dream man.