The City of Astan [2]

Ace

I find a shirt and slip it on, waiting for her by the door.

Bella

I walk to him and twine my hand with his.

Ace

I squeeze her hand before leading her downstairs and to the room she had originally been staying in.

Bella

I follow him, sighing.

Ace

A little girl lies in the middle of the bed, tended to, but looks broken almost. I glance at Brady, and he nods and leaves us alone, the door sealing behind us.

Bella

My eyes tear up and I let go of his hand, rushing to her, speaking in Spanish because that's all she understands, and gently take her in my arms, "Rosie, oh Dios Mio, què han hecho?"

I hold her close, burying my face in her hair.

Ace

I stay by the door, watching her sadly. This has gotta be love. Pain like this should give me a high, not drag me down. I have to love her.

Bella

"Mamà me dejò..." she sniffles, "Dondè has estadò?"

I shake my head, "That isn't important," I whisper, kissing her tiny forehead, "Just get some rest."

Ace

I hesitate before walking to Bella and setting a hand on her back, keeping my distance.

Bella

I glance back at Ace, Rosie glancing up at him. She looked axactly like me when I was eleven. Exactly. I lay her down and she looks up at Ace, "quièn eres?"

I wipe my eyes and study her, "That's Ace, baby. Go to sleep. You'll get better. I'll stay with you if you want."

She nods and I look up at Ace, "C-Can I stay with her? She needs me."

Ace

I hesitate before nodding, looking over the injuries of the little girl and imagining what they did. Looking back at Bella, I nod again and remove my hand, "I'll have water and food brought in. The door won't be locked, but guarded still. You'll be able to find me if you want."

Bella

I nod and crawl in beside Rosie, wrapping my arms around her gently, "Promise."

Ace

I nod and hesitate before leaving, ordering the food and water and heading back up to my room.

Bella

I close my eyes, yawning.

Ace

I don't lock the door behind me, but lie in bed and look up at the ceiling.