Ethan walked toward Clara and wrapped his arms around her. He was just trying his luck at getting closer to her and comforting her, knowing the situation must be hard for her.
The minute he held her, he expected her to stiffen or pull away, but instead, she melted into him, and for a long, quiet moment, they stood there in each other's arms, breathing the same air, neither of them trying to fill the silence with words that would only cheapen what they were feeling.
Eventually, Clara pulled back, just enough to look up at him.
Her voice was soft, honest.
"Are you scared, Ethan?"
Ethan held her gaze, the truth raw in his eyes. "Yes, yes, I am. Very much so. I'm scared for you."
Clara swallowed, then asked quietly,
"Aren't you scared for yourself?"
Ethan let out a breath, one that carried nine years of heartbreak, fear, and love.
