Ethan paused for a moment, not quite understanding what she meant, when Emily suddenly buried her face in his shoulder, her voice hoarse, half-angry and half-flustered: “Why would you say something like that now… Do you think I could possibly stay calm after hearing it?”
The softness of Emily still clinging to him made Ethan feel both relieved and awkward. He patted her back gently, trying to reassure her: “Relax, we’re safe now. We’ve made it down, so rest for a bit. I’ll figure out a final solution.”
Gradually, Emily loosened her grip, though her cheeks were still flushed, her eyes lingering with a bit of panic and confusion after the ordeal. She sat down heavily on the ground, hugging her knees, lips pressed tightly together without saying another word.
Ethan turned away, dusting off
