My footsteps echo softly against the cold marble as I walk ahead. Deniz follows a step behind, silent as ever.
We enter the elevator—he steps in after me, presses the button, and the doors slide shut with a quiet clink.
I stand straight, hands relaxed at my sides, then steal a quick glance at him.
He's standing a little apart, eyes lowered, posture stiff.
…Why is he like this?
Did I make him uncomfortable earlier?
My gaze drifts away. I didn't mean to. I really didn't.
Should I say something? The silence feels heavier than it should.
The elevator stops.
We step out into the brightly lit hallway, then pass through the doors where guards open the way. The moment we step outside, the night air crashes against my face—sharp, freezing, unforgiving.
Winter really doesn't show mercy.
Deniz keeps following me quietly. I glance back over my shoulder.
His eyes are still lowered, his steps slow, as if his mind is somewhere far away.
I suddenly stop.
He doesn't—
