One-hundred-and-one

With a warm cup of tea in her hands, Rebecca watched as the sun fell below the horizon from a seat on the porch. The previous week had been a tornado of feelings and encouragement. Now that John was no longer a danger, she felt relieved, but the recollections persisted in the back of her mind. She inhaled deeply, attempting to shake off the residual anxiety.

Andreas walked up behind her and placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. She looked up at him, offering a small smile. He had been her rock through it all, supporting her in every way possible. "How are you feeling?" he asked softly.

Rebecca sighed, leaning into his touch. "Better," she admitted. "The weight feels a little lighter now that he's gone."

Andreas nodded, his gaze full of understanding. "I'm glad you're safe," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "And I'm here for you, always."

She reached up and touched his hand, a silent thank you passing between them. They sat in comfortable silence, the sounds of the evening