They left the restaurant quietly a few minutes after Ava was done with her meal.
Ava walked a few steps ahead of Damian, her arms wrapped loosely around herself as if she were trying to keep something from spilling out. The air outside felt cooler and sharper against her skin after the warmth of the restaurant. She inhaled deeply, as though reminding herself to be calm, then she let out a breath zlowly.
Damian watched her from behind, noting the slight stiffness in her shoulders, the way she kept her gaze straight ahead. He didn't rush her. He matched her pace, his hands in his pockets, his presence steady and unintrusive.
They reached the car without speaking.
Damian opened the passenger door for her. Ava paused for a brief second before getting in, her fingers brushing the doorframe as if she needed the contact. He closed the door and walked around to the driver's side.
They pulled into traffic, the city moving around them like nothing had changed.
