Axel can hear footsteps inside.
The door swung open, and Evelyn appeared, her expression filled with surprise. Her eyes widened as though she hadn't expected him to show up so soon.
"Axel? Why are you here?"
He stared at her for a long moment, taking in the sight of her. Part of him wanted to pull her close immediately, shield her from the world clawing at their door.
But instead, he kept his voice steady. "I need to talk to you."
Her brows furrowed slightly, confusion and concern flashing across her face. "Did something happen?"
Axel's lips curved faintly, though his eyes stayed dark, unreadable. "Yes. And you need to hear it from me first."
Evelyn's heart clenched. Even though his voice was calm, she could clearly see the worry in his eyes. She stepped aside and let him in.
They moved to the seating area, settling on the sofa with the coffee table between them.
