As the night fell, Astrid sat in the garden, her phone pressed to her ear as she chatted with her grandfather.
She had called him earlier to explain that she wouldn't be able to make it to work, and now he was checking in to see how she was doing.
"I am fine, Granddad," Astrid reassured him. "I am just dealing with some personal stuff right now."
Her grandfather's voice was warm and concerned on the other end of the line. "I saw that picture of Julian online, Astrid. I was worried sick about you. Are you sure you're okay? He didn't hurt you again, did he?"
Astrid laughed, feeling a bit embarrassed. "Yes, Granddad, I'm fine. Julian was just...being Julian."
Her grandfather chuckled. "Well, just be careful, okay? I don't want anything to happen to you."
Astrid smiled, feeling grateful for her grandfather's concern. "I will, Granddad. Don't worry about me."