[Mature]
I fell—
Right into Claude's arms.
It was as though he had been waiting for it, like he somehow knew I'd drop out of nowhere again, the same way I did in his bedroom that time. I prepared myself for his nagging, a strict scolding, or even a shout saying, "What were you thinking?"
But nothing came.
There was only silence. Even his breath seemed controlled, restrained… as though if he exhaled too loudly, I'd slip away again. His arms just wrapped around me like a serpent—tight… cold as ice…
…and trembling.
"Hey—why are you shaking?!"
I pushed him away immediately. His forehead fell against my shoulder, heavy as if his neck couldn't hold him anymore. His weak, uneven breath hit my neck as he nuzzled closer, searching for warmth.
I gripped his sides—his clothes were damp, soaked through, and sticking to chilled skin. That was when I finally registered the sound around us.
It was raining.
