âYeah.
â Barlow smiled.
The âyeahâ was as much an affirmation of her calling his name.
Karina didnât grasp his implication.
She quickly opened the car door and stepped out.
The city shivered under the winterâs icy touch.
Moonlight painted delicate patterns on the ground, casting shadows that stretched across the sidewalk.
Karina hugged her coat closer as she braved the chilly air, feeling its bite sink into her bones.
Barlowâs coat, a dark silhouette against the pale light, wrapped around her, a silent shield from the cold.
Turning to him, Karina noticed his thin sweater and frowned.
âCarlow, really, Iâm okay.
Keep your coat,â she said firmly, her breath visible in the frosty air.
âYou either wear it, or Iâll hold you.
Your choice.
â
Barlowâs voice was gentle but resolute.
Karina watched his breath form white mist in the cold air, her emotions swirling inside her.
She hesitated and then looked away.
âDonât blame me when you catch a cold.
â
With that, she conceded, pulling the coat tighter around her, and scuttled towards the hospital.
Barlowâs laughter followed her as he strolled behind, a smile playing on his Lips.
If he caught a cold, he wouldnât blame her.
Heâd just hold her responsible and ask her to take care of him!
They stepped into the elevator.
Inside, the warmth of the enclosed space prompted Karina to return the coat to him.
Barlow accepted the coat, draping it casually over his arm.
When he saw Karinaâs gaze fixed on the elevator doors, his lips curled up into a smile.
Smoothly ascending, they soon arrived at the VIP floor.
As the elevator doors parted, Karina swiftly exited.
When he noticed her brisk pace, a subtle frown creased Barlowâs brow.
Was her urgency truly warranted?
Was her concern for Jack that intense?