27: SHADOWS OF UNCERTAINTY

As Bob continued to stroke my neck, I couldn't shake off the unease that lingered in the room. His touch, once comforting, now carried an undercurrent of tension. I opened my eyes to meet his gaze, and there was something unreadable in his eyes – a mix of concern and perhaps something else. "Are you feeling better?" he asked softly, his tone not betraying any of the conflict that had transpired downstairs. "I'm fine," I replied, keeping my voice steady, trying to conceal the curiosity and concern that plagued my thoughts. His fingers traced the outline of the bandage on my neck, and for a moment, the room was filled with silence. I couldn't help but wonder if the argument with Julie had taken a toll on him. "Julie left," I mentioned, trying to break the silence. He sighed, a heavy exhale that spoke volumes. "She's persistent. Too persistent." "Is everything okay between you two?" Bob hesitated, his eyes darting away for a moment before meeting mine again. "It's complicated." I