She can't remember the last time she's waved to somebody, but as she saw him standing across the room, it was the only thing she could think to do. He looked good in his tux, talking to a bunch of high-ranking officials. Feeling tears begin to prick the back of her eyes, she looked away.
Hours later, she stood outside on the balcony, the music floating out to her from the ballroom. Hugging her arms tightly around her, she scolded herself for wearing a strapless dress when the weather was so cool.
She didn't hear him come up behind her, but she knew that he was there. He moved to stand next to her, his shoulder brushing against hers.
"I missed you," he said quietly.
"I haven't gone anywhere," she pointed out, a slight bitterness to her tone.
"I know. I'm probably too late, but I wanted you to know that I'm back now. For good."
Letting her arms drop to her sides, Chloe nervously slipped her hand into his, squeezing gently. Suddenly, he turned to face her, pulling her body against his as he buried his face in her neck.
"Don't leave me again, Jack," she whispered.
He kissed the spot between her neck and shoulder.
"Never again," he promised.