Stefan didn't let go of Genevieve. Not even when her sobs softened or when her grip on his shirt loosened.
His hand moved slowly up and down her back like he still needed to feel her to be sure she was real.
"I was so scared…" she tried to speak, but her voice broke again.
"Hey…" he whispered against her hair. "Hey… I'm here."
Genevieve nodded weakly against his chest.
Stefan pulled back just enough to look at her. His hands moved to her face and he touched it gently like it was the most fragile thing in the world.
He didn't mind that there were tears on his face or that his expression was unguarded in that minute. He didn't care about any of that.
"Look at me," he said softly.
Her blue eyes lifted to his. Red, swollen, and afraid.
"I'm here now. You're okay," he said again.
This time, like he was convincing himself too.
She nodded. "I'm okay," she whispered.
Stefan let out a slow breath. Then he pulled her into a tighter hugger.
Like he was anchoring himself.
