Chapter 102. Mr. Corrigan's Wants

Emerald, greedy for the connection, didn't want to end the call. Even the sound of his shallow breathing made her feel like he was right there beside her.

But just then, a loud "boom" echoed from the other end of the phone, followed by the sound of an explosion.

"Aric!" Emerald shot up from her chair, startled. Her sudden movement caused the red wine to spill all over her, but she barely noticed as her eyes fixed anxiously on the phone.

Luckily, Alaric's response was swift and calm. "Don't worry, I'm fine. I just need to handle some trouble. Good night."

Even in this moment of danger, he remembered to comfort her, ending with a soft "good night."

The call ended, leaving Emerald staring at her phone, drenched in red wine.

She sat there, feeling a wave of emptiness wash over her, murmuring to the distant lights, "Aric, please come back safely."

This time, there was no reply.

That night, Emerald tossed and turned, unable to sleep peacefully.