The music swelled, its soft melody weaving around them like a cocoon, isolating them from the world. Emma let Alexander guide her movements, his hand firm yet gentle on her waist. For a moment, she allowed herself to be present, to feel the rhythm of the music and the warmth of his touch.
“Why did you really come tonight?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Alexander’s lips curved into a faint smile, but there was a weight behind his eyes that she couldn’t ignore. “It’s not what you think. I wasn’t trying to ambush you, Emma.”
“Then what?” she pressed, tilting her head slightly to meet his gaze.
He hesitated, as though carefully choosing his words. “Being here… it’s a reminder of what I lost. Of what I took for granted. I didn’t plan to see you tonight, but I’m glad I did.”
