Claire's POV
"Evander!?"
I called out again as my voice felt straining against the suffocating cloud of smoke. There was still no answer. The faint sound of ash falling onto the floor filled the heavy silence. My heart raced, and I hesitated as I didn't know where to go.
Before I could decide, strong arms wrapped around me from behind, pulling me into a firm and desperate embrace.
"Evan…" I whispered, startled by the sudden contact. "You… Are you drunk?" The stench of smoke mingled with the sharp smell of alcohol made me scrunch my nose.
"I… I missed you," his voice was hoarse and was barely audible, as his grip tightened. "I really missed you."
I froze, my mind blblank, as his words echoed in the quiet room. Missed me? I didn't know how to react to this.
I slowly placed my hand over his, resting on my shoulder. My touch was hesitant, unsure, but gentle. "I know," I finally said as my voice was soft, trembling with unspoken emotions. "I know because… I missed you too."
