Alexander
The ice hits the glass when I tilt the glass, second whiskey.
I don't know at what point it went from being a decision... to a need.
The hotel bar is half empty. Low lights, soft music, that kind of ambience that invites you to think too much... or to forget enough. I'm doing both.
I look at the amber reflection of the liquid before bringing it to my lips. I don't enjoy it. I'm not here for the taste. I'm here because I need to shut something up in my head... and it's not working.
Because the image is still there.
Clara walking down the hallway, stopping in front of her room.
Telling me, in that voice of her... calm, but firm: "I think you can only accompany me this far."
And I... Staying there. Watching how she entered, knowing who was inside.
Ethan.
I clench my jaw.
