"Anastasia, are you okay?"
Nicholas's voice echoed softly across the rooftop.
Anastasia turned quickly, surprised by the familiar voice. Her eyes were red, but she quickly blinked and tried to steady her emotions.
"I'm fine… just needed some air," she said, forcing a tight smile.
'No, you are definitely not fine and I'm sure of it.' Nicholas thought.
Nicholas stepped closer, his hands in his pockets and concern in his eyes. "You must've seen the news, right?"
She gave a small nod, her throat too tight to speak.
"I know it looks bad," Nicholas began, keeping his voice calm, "but don't panic. The woman's face is blurred.
It's only Mason's that shows. The article's full of guesses and gossip, not facts."
Anastasia looked down at her hands, then slowly raised her eyes to meet his. "But it's because of me, right? This is all happening because of me…"
