The warmth that had gathered in their shared gaze was brief, yet precious.
The two unconsciously drew closer. At last, Karl stretched out his arms and pulled Charlotte firmly into his embrace.
Charlotte's body stiffened for an instant, but soon relaxed, obediently resting against his broad shoulder.
Karl's chin rested atop her soft hair, its faint fragrance lingering beneath his nose. He gently patted her back again and again, as though soothing her, or perhaps confirming that this hard-won reunion was real.
Charlotte did not return the embrace, but neither did she push him away. She simply leaned quietly against him, eyes closed, feeling the long-missed warmth and heartbeat of another person.
The firelight cast their shadows onto the wall, merging them into one as they swayed faintly.
There were no words, nor was there any need for them. The peace and embrace of this moment surpassed a thousand promises and explanations. The iceberg between them had not vanished, but at least for now, one small patch had been temporarily melted by their shared warmth and silent understanding.
Who knew how long passed? Perhaps only a few minutes, yet it felt as though ages had gone by. Charlotte shifted gently, the first to pull herself free from that intoxicating warmth. She raised her head, her azure eyes exceptionally clear beneath the dim yellow light, reflecting Karl's face within them.
"Go get some sleep," she said, her voice carrying a trace of barely noticeable hoarseness—perhaps because she had not spoken for so long, or perhaps because of the turmoil in her heart. "You've been tired all day."
Reluctantly, Karl loosened his arms. He looked deeply at her, then nodded. "Mm. You should rest early too. Good night, Charlotte."
"Good night," Charlotte replied softly, though her gaze had already turned toward their