Chapter 49

Nick

In the background, I can hear the rush of water, indicating Kels is in my shower. Leaning against the counter in my kitchen, I take a deep breath, trying to calm the heart that feels like it's beating out of my chest. Bringing her here was a conscious decision, having her in my personal space is a way to show her how much I care for her, rather than telling her. I've never been good with words. Hopefully my actions can say what I can't. It had taken me years to tell my mom and dad not only thank you for saving my life, but that I love them. It was a word I felt I couldn't pronounce, no one had ever really said it much to me. Until I came to live with the Keplers. That isn't a time in my life I want to relive tonight.

Moving over to the sink, I look out the window, watching as the rain falls steadily. Sharp bursts of thunder echo every now and again, the loud clap rolling with a deep groan, shaking my apartment building with its ferocity. When I was young, right when the Kepler