I thought I was dreaming, so I palmed my forehead before laying back down. However, the knocking continued, and I tensed up, asking, “Who is it?!”

A voice from outside replied, "It's me!"

I couldn’t believe it. My drowsiness disappeared as the person repeated, “Open the door, Chloe. It’s me.”

I jumped out of bed and stumbled to the door. My heart raced as I mumbled, “That voice sounds like… How’s that possible?”

I peeked through the peephole and saw a tall figure standing in the dimly lit corridor. My heart skipped a beat, and I trembled before opening the door. I saw a weary-looking Atlas standing before me with a faint smile.

I stared at him in disbelief, fearing he would disappear if I blinked. I asked shakily, “H-How’d you get here?”

I wanted to throw myself into his arms but dared not. He looked at me and pursed his lips, looking somewhat tired. “I knew you were here, so I had to come. Aren’t you glad to see me?”

Then, he put his arm around my shoulder and said, "Let me in.