~Zayn's POV~
We managed to get out of the media crush and, instead of going back to the hotel suite, I instructed the driver to take us straight home. The quiet darkness of the mansion felt like the only safe place left.
Zayn said nothing at first as we walked through the hall. I waited until we were alone in the bedroom before I finally asked him, "Are you okay, babe?"
He forced a tiny, tired smile. "I'm fine, Evric."
I pressed him further, knowing better than to accept the easy answer. "Be honest with me."
He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I'm fine," he repeated, but his voice was softer. "I was just shocked by the sudden cameras. It felt aggressive, like we were being hunted."
That night, the planned celebration was shelved. The earlier drama had drained us both of all energy. Zayn simply told me he wanted to sleep, and after a quick, quiet shower, he was in bed. The success felt hollow without the shared joy.
