~Zayn's POV~
"Zayn!" It was Kai's voice, loud enough to cut through the quiet house. "Someone's looking for you!"
I pulled away instantly from Evric, my eyes wide, startled back to the reality outside our bubble. "Who?"
"Your friend, Dean?" Kai replied, shouted back.
I turned to Evric and gave him a quick, final kiss. "I'll be right back."
I walked into the living room and found Dean waiting, looking tired and troubled.
"What's up, man?" Dean said, managing a brief, weary greeting.
"Hey," I replied, forcing a smile.
I walked to the bar cabinet, retrieved a good bottle of red wine, and poured two generous glasses, one for Dean and one for myself. I handed him his glass, and we both sat down.
Dean didn't ease into the conversation. He started talking immediately, his shoulders slumped. "I've been busy with work, but... enough about me. How are you doing, Zayn?"
I smiled faintly and said, "I'm doing fine," my voice soft, knowing he wouldn't believe it.
