Chapter 99 —3 meters

Narrator:

The car stopped in front of the residence, imposing within the gated community where tranquility seemed to permeate every corner. The porch lights were already on, and Aylin waited silently at the door, her arms crossed over her chest and her heart on the edge of the abyss.

Dominic got out of the car, walked around, and opened the back door.

“We're here,” he said softly.

Sasha got out without saying a word. Her eyes were shiny, but her face was serene. She clutched her backpack to her chest as if she needed to hold on to something more than just her belongings.

When their eyes met, neither of them moved immediately.

And then the girl ran.

Aylin didn't hesitate for a second. She hugged her tightly, with all her heart, with all the love she hadn't been able to give her during those days of absence. Sasha clung to her neck, breathing deeply, as if the mere contact of their bodies could fill the void.

“I missed you,” she whispered. “So much.”

“Me too, my love