Beyond The Lie

Chapter 15: Rules

Eryx.

Adeline's words seeped into my soul, awakening something primal. I couldn't tear my gaze from hers, sensing a hidden vulnerability. Was she revealing a piece of herself, or was I reading too much into it?

My mask slipped, and a small smile escaped, betraying my composure.

That was a very nice story. Adeline's quick thinking impressed me, but it was the emotion behind her words that stirred something within me.

Susan's eyes sparkled mischievously. "Oh! Eryx is smiling!" she exclaimed, her laughter infectious.

"Look, honey!" she said, turning to Uncle. "Eryx is blushing! Oh my God, it's a once-in-a-blue-moon thing!"

The room's attention shifted to me, and I felt a flush rise to my cheeks. I glanced at Adeline, our eyes locking in a silent understanding. Her knowing smile spoke volumes—a secret shared between us.
Only we knew the truth.

I watched Adeline charm Susan and others with her warmth. Susan's eyes sparkled as she asked, "Adeline, dear, how do you feel about our family? Do you think you'll fit in?"

Adeline's smile lit up the room. "I love your family. Everyone's been so welcoming."

Susan beamed. "That's wonderful! And what about my family dynamics?"

Adeline's enthusiasm was infectious. "I adore everyone, father, mother, Asher—" She halted, noticing the sudden tension.

I sensed her unease, seeing the confusion in her eyes. My family's expressions had turned guarded, their faces a mask of polite curiosity.

I intervened, my voice filled with warmth and protectiveness. "Addie's always said Mom's memory is a blessing, and she's still with us in spirit. She just prefers to honor her that way."

As I spoke, I realized I'd never shared this about my mom with Adeline. A pang of regret hit me – I should have tell her.

I placed a reassuring hand on the inner side of her thigh, just above the knee. My touch was gentle, meant to calm her.

Adeline's tension eased, and she glanced at me with gratitude.

Susan's expression softened. "That's lovely, Adeline. You have a beautiful heart."

Liam nodded, and the conversation flowed smoothly once more.

I gave Adeline's thigh a gentle squeeze, reassuring her. My touch sparked a connection, and I felt her relax.

*****

"The rain is freaking out!" Liam exclaimed, gazing out the window. The panes were already blurred, and the sound of heavy rain created a constant din outside, muffled only by the insulation of our indoor space.

I glanced out, then at Adeline, realizing my hands still rested on her thighs. I slowly withdrew them. Her expression was inscrutable - a mix of sadness, guilt, confusion, and anxiety. She was worried about our return journey; I shared her concern.

My phone chimed, breaking the tension. I checked the message:

WEATHER ALERT: Heavy rain causing flash flooding & landslides. Roads closed due to flooding & debris. Power outages expected in areas: Northside, Downtown & Hilltop. Avoid travel, stay indoors & follow evacuation instructions. Emergency Services: 911. - National Weather Service (NWS)

"Damn it!" I muttered.

"What?" Adeline asked, alarm rising in her voice.

I turned to her and addressed the others, "Flash flood warning. Roads are closed, and our way back's blocked - can't go through Northside, Downtown, or Hilltop." I showed her the message on my phone, seeking to reassure her I wasn't exaggerating.