#Chapter 72: Strangers in the Night

He turned toward me, his hazel eyes bright with a mixture of exhaustion and exhilaration. "Evie!" he greeted, his voice warm and genuine. As he neared, his broad shoulders seemed to fill the space between us. "I can't believe you came to watch," he added, his tone laced with appreciation. "Of course, I wouldn't miss it," I replied, a genuine smile tugging at my lips. "You were amazing out there." Timothy's cheeks tinted with a faint blush, and he rubbed the back of his neck. "Thanks, Evie. It means a lot." As the crowd around us began to thin out, I caught a glimpse of movement out of the corner of my eye. Aria and Lucas were making their way toward us, their smiles wide and their steps purposeful. I felt a rush of warmth at the sight of them, knowing that they were here to share in this moment of celebration. "Looks like we've got some company," I teased, nodding in the direction of Aria and Lucas. Timothy turned to see Aria and Lucas approaching, his smile growing even bright