The moment Emma stepped through the front door, her heart pounded in her chest. The familiar warmth of home surrounded her, but the guilt weighing on her shoulders didn't ease.
She had left. She had run away when Alex needed her the most. And now, she had to face him.
Her eyes landed on Alex the second she entered the living room. He was sitting on the couch, his elbows resting on his knees, his gaze distant.
But as soon as he saw her, his entire posture changed. His eyes softened, and before she could say a word, he was on his feet, closing the distance between them.
Then, without hesitation, he pulled her into a tight hug.
Emma froze for a split second before melting into his embrace, burying her face in his chest. His arms tightened around her, as if reassuring himself that she was truly there.
"You came back," he murmured against her hair, his voice filled with relief.
A lump formed in Emma's throat. "I'm sorry," she whispered, gripping his shirt.
