Shortly after Vaan killed off Hurgas, he descended to the surface and welcomed Astoria's emotional embrace. Through her warmth and heartbeat, he could tell how much she missed him at that moment.
Much of Astoria's concern had also disappeared with that one simple hug.
Vaan didn't find it surprising that Astoria would feel burdened with concerns. After all, he had disappeared for more than two weeks.
If not for Valefor making waves in Gehenna and exposing his traces to Pangea, Astoria and the rest of his women would have been worried sick about his wellbeing.
Vaan tightened his hug and brought Astoria in closer. He sunk his head into her delicate neck and sniffed the sweet, floral scent of lavender in her beautiful blonde hair. It was as if he was trying to imprint her scent in his memory.
When he did that, Astoria felt his deep affection. She couldn't help but feel shocked yet pleasantly surprised at the same time.
