[discontinued] I'm Listening... (Book 4 of the Can't Say series.)

People stood and left the room, Avi was still sitting, shock filling him, he glanced over at Daniel. He had the same empty expression on his face as he was led away by police officers. They locked eyes from across the room.

I'm sorry...

Daniel shook his head.

Don't be...

He was taken downstairs. Avi looked down. He deserved it. He had it coming... So why did he feel so bad? He wanted to hug him and apologise for it but there was nothing he could--

"Mr Kaplan?"

His head swivelled right around to face a young-looking woman. She had natural red hair, dark brown eyes and very delicate facial features. She was wearing a purple dress and black flats. and a gem rimmed bag.

"Yeah?"

"I just wanted to say you were brave taking him to court. I wanted to take him to court all those years ago but... I couldn't... I was just scared."

"You too?"

"Yeah... but it's fine, there's a really great support group I go to on Thursdays."

She pulled a card out of her purse and handed it to him.

"You can come to if you want."

"...I'll consider it... thanks."

"You're welcome, you might want to go now, your friends left while you were zoned out."

He looked around. She was right... They did leave... Rude.

"Well... thanks for the support group. I might check it out... My name's Avi, by the way."

"I'm Lillian."

"I need to catch them up."

"I gotta go. Bye, Avi, I hope you get passed this..."

"me too... Bye, Lillian."

He left her in the courtroom, opening the doors and leaving it all behind.

Avi:

As soon as I stepped out, I felt strong arms wrap me in a hug. Kevin, I recognised the feel of him anywhere, I pushed my face into his chest, I felt safe there.

"you did it. he's gone, sweetie."

"he is..."

"i... am so proud of you."

"...mhmm..."

I could smell his signature cologne radiating off his collar. It's always given me a sense of security and belonging. I loved being in his arms... I felt invisible... like nothing could hurt me...

"What took so long."

"A woman in there is another victim of Daniel's. She gave me a card for a support group she goes to... I said maybe... I don't know tho..."

I stayed in Kevin's arms... I felt his embrace get tighter. I cherished it. It's been so long since we've even hugged on a natural couple basis, it's just been to clam me down or to make me feel better. Not because we wanted to...

"Why do you guys look so sombre?"

We looked at Esther with her hands on her hips.

"Daniel is finally gone, Avi. do you understand that? Gone! No more. You don't have to deal with him any more!!! This is something to celebrate! What do you guys say?"

She turned to Kevin and I.

"Drinks at you guys' house?"

Kevin smiled. I was looking up at him.