章 67: Why did I feel this way?

As the door to the terrace creaked open and the guest interrupted us, a wave of frustration surged through me. The moment had been so close, so perfect, and now it was gone. I quickly masked my irritation, slipping back into my usual cold demeanor.

"Ah, there you are!" the guest, clearly tipsy, exclaimed, his words slurring slightly. "Everyone's been looking for you two."

I straightened, my grip on Elena's hand tightening. The warmth of her skin against mine was a stark contrast to the icy exterior I projected.

"We'll be right in," I said smoothly, my voice devoid of the warmth it had held just moments ago. The guest nodded, oblivious to the tension he had just caused, and stumbled back inside, leaving us alone once more.