Zayn’s POV
“Do you think I did wrong?” she asked, her voice trembling around the guilt she was trying so hard to hide. “I mean… he survived, and I should be with him, right?” Her fingers twisted together, shoulders curled in like she was bracing for impact. “I shouldn’t have just come home like this. Maybe a simple ‘hey’ would’ve been okay, I—”
“Alina.”
I cupped her cheeks gently, stopping the spiral before she drowned in it. Her eyes were glossy, unfocused. “You did what was best for you, okay? You didn’t feel ready to see him, and forcing it would’ve made things worse.” My voice softened, grounding her, and slowly—very slowly—her breathing eased.
“You need to rest. You look exhausted.” I gave her a small smile, something light enough to ease the tension in her shoulders. She nodded a
