Chase' footsteps echoed on the marble floor in the small, silent room as he approached Aila. He kneeled in front of her with his head bowed and grasped her hand in both of his large ones. Aila flinched but did not pull away. Instead, she sighed and stared back at him.
She could see the guilt eating him up inside, but before he could say anything to her, she spoke first.
"Did you know she is dead?" She whispered, her voice almost breaking. She searched his eyes and saw them widen before he frowned.
"Aila.. I.." He gripped her hand more, "I didn't know. Fuck.. I didn't.." He let out a breath, leaned back and looked to the side. "Aila, I'm sorry. I know my apology doesn't change anything.. I just.. Dad.. he was catching on, I had to keep him off my back.. I thought I could escape with Hollie, but then realised she would be on the run with me.. I tried to be careful. I thought as soon as she was back with you guys if I just let you know.."
