I stood up, genuinely surprised. "Excuse me, Zayn," I said softly, placing a hand on his shoulder before walking away.
Before I could fully step toward the entrance, I heard my name shouted.
"Evric!" Nuala's voice rang out with excitement.
She practically launched herself at me, throwing her arms around my neck. I caught her in a warm hug, the kind that only came from people who truly knew you, flaws and all.
"I missed you so much," she whispered against my shoulder.
"I missed you more," I replied, holding her tighter.
She pulled back slightly, her hands still on my arms, eyes sparkling. "You didn't tell me you were coming with that," she whispered mischievously, Nuala, ever the gossip queen, tilted her head and asked with a sly smile, "Is that him?"
I chuckled, already bracing myself. "Nuala, you'll never change."
But I nodded, answering her silent question.