Chapter Ten

"Thanks," he muttered softly, taking the glass of scotch from Shawn.

They spent what felt like hours on end sipping and not saying a word. Even though Ivan yearned to hear Shawn's voice, his increasing madness stemmed from his desperate desire for Shawn to say anything, whatever it may be. Even if Shawn had nothing to contribute, Ivan hoped he would engage in conversation about the party or the drinks.

Looking directly at Shawn felt daunting, prompting Ivan to swiftly gulp down the remains of his drink, forcing it down his throat and clearing his throat in anticipation of Shawn's response.

Meanwhile, Shawn struggled to maintain composure externally, but internally, he was shaking. Standing next to him, Ivan's physical presence was palpable, as was the familiar scent of cologne that Shawn still realized had become Ivan's favorite.

While discreetly sipping his drink, Shawn fought to conceal his trembling hand.

He pondered what was going through Ivan's mind at that moment. Hoping he wou