chapter 54

Sierra pov.

I just stood there, transfixed, unable to tear my gaze away from Henry. It was him, unmistakably him. I wanted to approach, to make a move, but a surge of emotions overwhelmed me, leaving me frozen in indecision.

"Henry," I whispered, my voice barely audible. Tears welled up in my eyes as I locked eyes with him, the realization sinking in.

I reached out tentatively, my hands trembling, and brushed my fingers against his cheek. Joy washed over me, mingling with the tears that streamed down my face. I had believed I would never see him again after he mentioned his newfound partner, and in his absence, I had felt adrift. But here he was, in the flesh. As he pulled away slightly, I stared into his eyes one more time, my heart swelling with affection. He smiled, a balm to my soul.

He turned his attention to Nora, who had been fixated on Alex, seemingly preparing to take action. Henry approached her, gently pulling her away from Alex. Yet, there lingered a hint of fear in Alex's