Cleopatra glanced at him briefly before giving a small nod.

“Sure.”

Carefully, almost reverently, Calvin drew her into his arms. His arm wrapped around her small frame, pulling her against his chest. The embrace was firm but gentle, protective rather than possessive.

For several minutes, neither of them spoke.

The quiet in the room felt heavy, yet comforting.

Calvin rested his chin lightly against the top of her head as he held her, his hand slowly rubbing her back in soothing circles.

“Cleo,” he murmured after a while, his voice low and steady. “You’re doing well. Better than you think.”

His fingers tightened slightly around her shoulder.

“You’re strong. Stronger...