Veronica closed her eyes in her husband's embrace. She felt safe, even though shadows of fear still lingered in her chest. Daxter often showed mixed behavior, but Veronica could sense the sincerity hidden in every gentle gesture he made. As if he knew exactly what to do without being asked, without needing any explanation. As if he could read the turmoil in her heart just from the look in her eyes.
She didn't have to say a single word for Daxter to immediately take her away from the campus cafeteria that felt so suffocating. That place had been a pressure-filled space from the beginning, and Haisley's presence only intensified the weight.
Once they reached the parking lot, Daxter quickly opened the car door. He helped Veronica into the passenger seat with great care, as if his wife were something fragile that needed to be protected with all his heart. His warm hand gently brushed her temple, then moved to buckle her seatbelt with practiced ease.
