Chapter 49: Helplessness

Later that evening, after Ethan left and the house settled into a quiet hum, Ruby found herself sitting at the edge of the bed, waiting for Stefan, who was downstairs having a few drinks.

She glanced at her phone which was in her hand, and her heart felt heavy as Rayna’s thoughts crossed her mind.

She had promised Rayna she would call last night, but she hadn’t seen the time. She should’ve also called earlier today but then, so much had happened — the dance, the unexpected visit from Ethan, the confusing emotions swirling inside her— everything had made her lost track of time.

How was she now? How was the case? Had she been able to resolve the case or was it still on? Were they charging her to court? Her mind buzzed with questions she knew only Rayna could answer and she sighed.

Feeling guilty, Ruby quickly dialed Rayna’s number, pressing the phone close to her ear.

It rang only twice before Rayna answered, her voice sounding tired and strained.

"Hello?"

"Rayna," Ruby said softly. "I’m so sorry. I should have called you last night. Things got a little crazy here..."

There was a small pause on the other end, then a soft, weary laugh.

"It’s okay, Rubes. I figured you were busy," she said as she pushed away from her laptop.

Ruby’s chest tightened at how exhausted her best friend sounded. It wasn’t like Rayna to sound this defeated. Normally, she was full of energy, even when she was stressed. It just goes to show how much this was weighing on her.

"I still feel awful," Ruby said. "I’ve been thinking about you all day. How are things going with... you know, everything?"

Rayna let out a long, shaky sigh. "Not great," she admitted. "Not great at all."

dropping to

Rayna said. "My lawyer’s doing what he can to stall, but they’re being aggressive. They filed another motion today, claiming I cost

gasped, her hand flying to her mouth.

her voice breaking a little. "But proving that? It’s not so easy. They have money, Ruby. They have fancy lawyers who know how to twist things and make it look like

to push down the anger and

most hardworking, loyal person I know. How could one mistake put you in this kind of

"Yeah, I figured. They saw

worker of yours doing or saying about all of this?" Ruby asked and

damages, I mean I hired her so it’s my responsibility but disappearing the way she

painful. Ruby hated being so far away. She hated

do?" Ruby asked, her voice

doing it," Rayna said. "Just... being there. Letting me vent. It helps more

her throat aching. "I wish I could

her voice softening. "Tell me something good, Rubes. Please.

best friend Ethan came to visit today. He’s really nice. Not at all what

Tell me about it," she said and Ruby went on to explain what

character though? She’s just so bitter

twins. She only talks to me about few things or when she’s really happy," Ruby said

not talk about her. How’s Stefan?" Rayna said, not wanting to

cheeks warmed instantly, and she was glad Rayna couldn’t see her

amazing," Ruby said softly. "He’s been so sweet and patient. Every day, I

warm pause

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