Elena
*****Night — The Upper Terraces, Silverfang*****
Night had settled fully by the time I stepped outside.
Not the heavy, threatening kind of night we used to know, but a steady one. Lamps lined the walkways now, casting warm light over stone that had already learned the weight of footsteps and decisions. Voices drifted from distant courtyards, calm and unguarded. Laughter existed here without apology.
I leaned against the balcony railing and let out a slow breath.
I wasn’t waiting for anyone.
That was the lie I told myself.
Behind me, the doors opened.
I didn’t turn right away.
“Finn and Fia are pretending not to spy,” Chase said quietly. “They’re doing a terrible job.”
I huffed. “I noticed.”
Silence stretched between us, not awkward, not sharp. Just full.
He came to stand
