#Chapter 70: What are Friends For?

As I walked through my apartment door, I found Aria sitting on the couch, her brows furrowed in concern. "Where have you been?" she asked worriedly, already rushing toward me. I sighed, dropping my bag by the door. "Aria, you don't have to always ask that." She shook her head. "Yes, I do. Especially after what happened with Bruce. I need to know you're safe!” I looked away, memories of that terrifying night flashing before my eyes. Bruce's menacing presence, the cold fear gripping my heart, and the overwhelming sense of vulnerability. Twice, I’ve been found, battered and helpless at the hands of Bruce. “I can’t get that image of you out of my mind,” she whispered, her voice cracking. She had her hands on my shoulders, her face twisted in pain. “I don’t know what I’d do.” "I'm sorry, Aria," I murmured, my voice heavy with regret. "I know you worry about me, but I can't live my life in fear." She sighed, her expression softening. "I know, Evie. But you have to understand th