Chapter Sixteen: Troubled Expression

Amelia’s footsteps echoed in as she strolled along the side of the road. Every movement provided a sense of relief, slowly loosening the stress that had built up in her shoulders from the incident at the restaurant. She felt unsettled, despite the calm atmosphere.

She knew that Maxwell was wrong and she kind if felt bad that she asked Jonah to leave in the manner he did.
She thought back to the drama of the past few minutes. Maxwell's words had cut deep, but it was the altercation between Jonah and Maxwell that had left her feeling the most shaken.

While taking a turn, the path led to the corner, deep in thoughts, she barely spotted the person gazing at the distance. She felt her heart skip a beat as she realized what was happening.

"Is that Jonah?" She spoke with a mix of surprise and confusion.

He faced her, his expression unreadable. They briefly stared at each other, the silence deafening. Jonah's unexpected presence caught her by surprise.

He responded with a soft tone, “Amelia.'"

She moved closer, her gaze scanning his face in search of explanations. "I thought you went back home."

Jonah nodded his head in a slow manner. I didn't feel like it was a good idea.*

“Why?” She couldn't stop the word from slipping out. "Why did you stay back?"

He let out a sigh as he massaged the back of his neck from the feeling of unease. I felt bad about leaving you with Maxwell. After all that happened…” he replied. “I wanted to be sure you're safe.”

Amelia felt a rush of emotions, guilt and relief mingling together. “Jonah, I… I’m sorry. For everything.”

Jonah took a step towards her, closing the distance between them. “No, Amelia. I’m the one who should apologize. I was the one who threw the first punch. I let my anger get the best of me.”

She shook her head, tears welling up in her eyes. “But you wouldn’t have if Maxwell hadn’t provoked you. He’s been… difficult.”

Jonah's face became more gentle, and he extended his hand, softly grasping hers. “I shouldn't have responded the way I did, no matter what Maxwell said or did. I wasn't supposed tinact out like that, especially nit in public.”

Amelia grasped his hand tightly, feeling calm from his touch. “We are all humans, Jonah. We all make mistakes. What is important is that you are here now.” Amelia reolied.

For a brief moment, they stood quietly, their eys locked and their breaths in a rhythm.

"What's your plan regarding Maxwell?" Finally, Jonah broke the silence by asking that question.

Amelia let out a sigh, and then averted her gaze. "I dont know yet. The man acts like hes obsessed with me."

Jonah's face showed worry as he frowned. "Did he cause you any harm?"

She rapidly shook her head. “No, not in terms of physicality. However, his words were offensive, more like disrespectful.” Amelia replied in a soft tone.

Jonah's jaw clenched, revealing the simmering anger underneath. "If he ever touches you, Amelia, I promise—"

"Jonah, could you please stop?" she interjected softly. "I don't want this drama, please."

He let out a sigh as his shoulders drooped. “I know. I can't stand seeing you in this state, i hate that you're not smiling.”

Amelia was able to muster a faint smile. “It's okay Jonah, I'll be fine.”

They remained on that spot for a little longer, and after some time, Jonah broke the silence again, his voice gentle. “Would you like to stroll a little? Tey and distract ourselves a little bit?"

Amelia nodded in agreement. "I would really love that.”

They walked for a while, down the street until Jonah felt lik they've walked long enough.
Jonah waved his hand to signal a taxi, and a yellow cab stopped next to them with a small screech. He held the door open for Amelia, but she refused with a mixed expression on her face, shaking her head.

“Thank you Jonah but i still wakt to walk some more. I need to clear my mind," she requested, apologizing with a smile as she turned to the cab driver. "I apologize for the inconvenience."

Jonah shut the taxi door and then faced Amelia. The driver shrugged, nodded quickly, and drove away into the night, leaving the two of them standing on the side of the road.

"I understand. Taking more steps sounds good.."
They kept walking along the poorly lit path, the sweet chilly air of the night enveloping them like a soothing quilt.

While they strolled, the noises of the city gradually disappeared, giving way to the rustling of leaves and the occasional far-off dog bark.

Amelia inhaled deeply, allowing the crisp evening breeze to enter her lungs. "Jonah, thank you for waiting for me. It really means a lot.”

Jonah's eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled in his usual manner. “You're welcome anytime, Amelia. I am her for you.” he assured her.

For a few more minutes, they continued walking without speaking, as the road turned into a narrow alley that went through the other side of town. The alleyway was dimly lit, bordered by brick structures and the occasional flickering streetlamp.

As they approached the center of the alley, they were surprised by a sudden shout coming from in front of them. Amelia felt her heart pounding and automatically reached for Jonah's arm.

"Did you hear that?" she whispered, her voice trembling slightly.

Jonah nodded, his expression tense. "Yeah. Stay close."

They moved cautiously towards the sound, their footsteps echoing softly off the brick walls. The shouts grew louder, more distinct, and they could make out the sound of a struggle.

“Amelia wait, tou shouldn't just walk into danger.” Jonah cautioned her.

“What would you have me do Jonah?” Amelia asled as she paused her step.

All she thought about was helping whoever is in danger, regardless of whether she gets hurt in the process.

While they stood, they heard someone groan in pain im the dark.
The Reborn Healer
Detail
Share
Font Size
40
Bgcolor