Alaric then turned his attention to Emerald. She was just as intoxicated—but at least she wasn't causing a scene like Iris.
Curled up like a cat, her legs tucked against her chest, her long curls cascading smoothly over her shoulders, she tilted her head and flashed him a sweet, almost intoxicating smile.
"You're here..."
At that moment, half of Alaric's heart melted.
If Emerald asked for the stars, he would build her a ladder himself.
"Drunk?" he asked.
"A little... dizzy."
She stretched out her arms. "I want a hug..."
Without hesitation, Alaric scooped her up. Emerald instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist, clinging to him like a playful little monkey.
She murmured softly, the scent of alcohol lingering in her breath, "Aric... I love you..."
Alaric froze for a split second before a slow, amused smile tugged at the corners of his lips.
"Yeah... me too, my dear Teacher Greene."
