Irvin's POV
I pressed my back against the chair, releasing a deep exhale. Not the kind that comes from simple fatigue, but from being exhausted by everything simultaneously—the people, the emotions, the discussions I wanted to avoid.
I understood precisely what Caroline was attempting. She didn't need to voice it directly. The way she hesitated before leaving, how her gaze sought mine, how her tone became tender whenever she spoke my name.
I genuinely wished that maintaining politeness and kindness for our former friendship wouldn't evolve into something more complicated.
I wanted her to find closure. To let go of what we once shared, of what she believed we might still salvage.
