Until the Final Whistle
His mouth met hers with a desperation that mirrored her own, five years of silence and shame and longing crashing together in a single breathless moment.
When they finally broke apart, his forehead rested against hers.
"We'll face him together," he whispered. "Your father, whoever's sending those messages, all of it. You're not alone anymore."
She closed her eyes and let herself believe him. Just for a moment. Just for tonight.
"Together," she repeated softly.
Outside the window, the city glittered on, indifferent and endless, and somewhere in the dark, someone was still watching.
But for now, in the warmth of his arms, Evelyn let herself forget.