He adjusted his coat and walked outside, his steps steady, his heart surprisingly light.
And there she was.
Melinda.
Standing in the courtyard, dressed in a soft navy suit that carried the elegance of her new position. Her hair shimmered under the daylight, and her hands clutched the strap of her handbag nervously.
The moment her eyes spotted Jayden, her composure shattered. She rushed forward without even realising it, her heels clicking against the stone path, her arms already opening.
"Jayden!"
He barely had time to brace himself before she wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into a strong, warm hug.
For a heartbeat, Jayden froze, stunned by the sudden wave of familiarity, of comfort, of something he hadn't felt in what seemed like forever.
Slowly, he placed his arms around her, returning the embrace.
