(Asher’s POV)
I was drunk, but not so drunk that I couldn't understand what was going on around me. I knew Aurora was sitting beside me, and while I could have ordered her to leave and bear my pain alone as usual, something in me stopped me, and her presence was much more calming than being alone.
“I’m sorry, I… I don’t know why I’m like this tonight” I muttered, my voice hoarse and thick from the alcohol. My hand, trembling slightly, reached for hers, and without thinking, she let me hold it. My grip was weak, but it was enough to let her know I needed something.
Aurora gently ran her thumb over the back of my hand, offering silent comfort.
“You don’t have to apologize, Asher. You can talk to me”.
For a moment, there was nothing but the sound of my shallow breathing and the soft rust
