804 Words of assurance

"Aria?" Noah entered the ladies' washroom, frantically searching for her. He didn't give a damn that it was the ladies' washroom; Aria's well-being was more important than anything. To hell with his dignity.

Aria was sobbing by the sink, her entire body leaning over the counter as she used her hands to keep herself upright.

"Aria?"

As soon as she heard Noah's voice from behind, she turned around and dove into his embrace, startling him with her forceful actions. He even had to take a few steps back due to the sudden impact before stabilizing himself.

"Aria, please don't cry," he said, rubbing her back gently to soothe her. But he knew nothing he said or did could stop her. After all, he himself was only on the verge of a mental breakdown. Ivy's condition made him feel pathetic, and he wished he could take her place.