Katherine couldn't describe the feeling that washed over her the moment her arms wrapped around Nathan. It was as if her lungs could finally breathe again after suffocating in panic for what felt like hours. She held him tightly, so tightly, afraid that if she let go, he might vanish from her arms again.
She pressed her cheek against his soft, warm hair, inhaling the scent of popcorn, cotton candy, and a faint trace of sweat. He was real. He was here.
"I was so scared," she whispered, her voice trembling against his ear. "So, so scared, baby."
"I'm sorry," Nathan mumbled, nuzzling into her neck.
Katherine pulled back slightly, cupping his small face in both hands. His cheeks were flushed, his eyes glassy with emotion, but he wasn't hurt. No bruises, no tears—nothing. He was okay. He was okay.
Thank God.
