Chapter 97

Two hours later, Rowan returned to the house. He had taken a walk after separating from Amanda to get hold of himself. By the time he entered the house, the lingering tension seemed to have dissipated. “That's a good thing” he said before heading to his room.

He had almost walked past when he noticed Tyler sitting in a corner right under the stairs. Rowan approached him. “Hey buddy”

Tyler looked at him and looked away immediately. “Can I sit?”

“If you are asking because you want me to say no, you don't need to, it's your house.” Tyler said, playing with his fingers.

“No..I am asking because I am about to intrude on your solitude, your personal time.” Rowan responded, careful with his words. “May I?”

Tyler nodded. “Watch your head” he said to Rowan as he tried to fit in under the stairs.

“How are you holding up?" Rowan asked, not sure of how to start.

Tyler glanced up, his eyes revealing a mix of uncertainty and vulnerability. “Holding up with what? Your parents being mean to my