Ruby's POV

The apartment felt quieter once Austin left.

I stood by the window for a while, before finally pulling out my phone.

When my adoptive mother picked up, her voice was softer than I remembered. “Ruby,” she said, “I was just about to call you. How are things over there?”

“I’m fine,” I said. “How about you? Any trouble lately? Is anyone bothering you?”

She sighed. “No, nothing like that anymore. Ever since that last incident, it’s been peaceful. I’ve even ...