I nodded, then stood, giving Nicki a small smile before leaving.
On my way, Mr. Karl called to inform me that Zayn was waiting inside my office. I told him I already knew, Zayn had just called and assured him I was close by.
When I entered my office, I froze for a moment. Zayn was there, but he didn't look like himself. He sat slouched on the couch, his head resting against the back, his eyes closed as if even the weight of keeping them open was too much. He didn't even notice me walk in.
I quietly slipped off my jacket and walked over to him. Without a word, I lowered myself onto his lap, cupping his face gently. I kissed his forehead, his nose, then his cheek, lingering before finally pressing my lips softly against his. That was when his eyes opened slowly, heavy with exhaustion.
He didn't speak at first. He just stared at me, his gaze unreadable, as though searching for something in my face. After a long moment, his lips finally parted.
