Lena stood frozen in his arms, and her hands hovered in the air. Then, slowly, they came down. One rested on his shoulder, the other slid to the back of his head, her fingers threading lightly into his hair. “I’m here,” she said softly, her voice calm as she stroked his hair.

Rhys tightened his hold around her, pulling her closer as if afraid she might slip away. They stayed like that for a while. Lena’s body began to stiffen from the awkward position. “Rhys…” she called gently. He didn’t respond.

She pressed her lips together before speaking again. “Let’s go.” She paused. “I’ll take you to my place.” Rhys...