I Know It Doesn’t Help

“Are you okay?” Ashleigh asked. Concerned by Alice's demeanor.

Alice tilted her head with a smile.

“Are you worried?” she asked. “About me?”

Ashleigh swallowed and looked away.

“The way you were talking,” Ashleigh replied softly. “It sounded like how you used to talk before Axel.”

Alice grinned and turned back to Axel.

“Coping mechanisms come in all shapes, sizes, tastes, and colors,” she said in a cheery voice.

Alice took a short breath.

“Sometimes, they’re wrapped in playful packaging dipped in sarcasm and self-deluded commentary,” she continued. “Allowing a separation of self from reality just long enough to take a breath… before it crashes back over you and pulls you down into the cold dark depths.”

Ashleigh chewed her bottom lip wishing she hadn’t said anything.

“Are you going to say hello?” Alice asked.

Ashleigh lifted her eyes. Alice was still looking at Axel, but she knew the words were directed at her.