Popping up—

Bianca?!

He blinked quickly. "...I think I am, yes?"

Adam blinked faster, stumbling back a little before tentatively looping his arms around the girl. "... Of course it's me! Are you alright?"

More confused blinking followed as he looked down at the redhead, brows furrowed. "Are you sure you're alright? You seem a little... Well, off."

He grunted softly as her hand smacked his torso, squeezing her close once again. "Just checking!"

"The only familiar thing?" What has been going on in this girl's life? "Bianca, what has been happening?"

... Wait, what? Adam blinked quickly as he tried to piece everything together. "I'm... God, Bianca, I'm so sorry... I'm not entirely sure what to say..."

That was some consolation, he supposed. Although it didn't stop him from gently pulling her close again. "And how has it been treating you? How are you feeling?"

"Oh, Bianca." He heaved a soft sigh, pressing a quick kiss to the top of her curls. "Life hasn't been kind to you, has it?"

Adam could think of several responses to that question, but none of them were appropriate to say to a lady. He settled for offering a sweet smile. "You are right. But you seem to suffer more than most."

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