#Chapter 54: The Aftermath

Aiden winces as he adjusts himself on the uncomfortable hospital bed. The doctors have put his foot in a bulky cast now. I sit beside him, my hands fidgeting uncontrollably as waves of concern wash over me. “How are you feeling?” I ask softly. I reach out a hand to take his, but I hesitate. I can’t help the spike of guilt that stabs me when I remember how this all happened in the first place. Aiden offers a crooked smile that doesn’t quite reach his eyes. “I’ve been better,” he admits. “That doesn’t matter, though. Are you okay? Did that man hurt you?” I let out a quiet laugh. “I’m not the one in a hospital bed, remember?” I murmur, regret staining my voice. Aiden looks at me with intensity. “Carol. You don’t blame yourself, do you?” Tears begin to prick the backs of my eyes, unbidden. I press the heels of my hands against them. “I’m sorry. This isn’t about me.” “Carol.” His voice sounds heartbroken and loving all at once. “Carol, look at me.” I can’t bear to look at him, especia