Their building came into view, the familiar outline rising through the dim evening light.
Noel didn't rush, and Luca didn't drift ahead—they remained side by side, quiet, the air between them tighter than before.
Inside the lobby, the security guard nodded at them, but neither really saw him.
They stepped into the elevator, doors sliding shut with a gentle hum.
The ride up was still and careful.
Luca could feel Noel beside him—steady, calm, but carrying something heavy.
When they reached their floor, neither spoke.
Luca unlocked the door, and they stepped into the dim apartment together.
Noel headed straight for the kitchen, opened the fridge, pulled out two bottles of water.
He came back and handed one to Luca—their fingers brushed, just a small touch, but Luca felt it land deep.
They drank. Silence again. Hearts beating too loud.
Noel set his bottle down first. "What did you want to say?"
Luca swallowed, suddenly unsure. "You should go first."
