Zack hastened to meet her, feeling an overwhelming sense of relief wash over him like a wave. Just a few minutes ago, he had been worried sick, his mind racing with worst-case scenarios, his heart heavy with fear. But now, as he saw her walking toward him, safe and sound, his anxiety melted away, replaced by intense joy.

As they met, they enveloped each other in a tight, desperate embrace, neither willing to pull away. Ivy's face lit up with a radiant smile, the warmth and comfort of his embrace seeping into her body, calming her nerves and soothing her fears. Zack held her close, his arms wrapped tightly around...