ARRDE
I felt nauseous.
The terminal air still carried the scent of jet fuel and coffee, thick with the hum of passengers weaving through the airport. But to me, everything had quieted. The moment I walked away from Alex, the sounds faded into a dull hum at the back of my mind.
My thoughts were a whirlwind, tangled between frustration and apprehension.
Alex had no idea what he had done to me.
No idea that hanging up on Darius was not just an act of defiance—it was a blatant act of disrespect toward the Elders. And disrespecting them meant consequences.
I could already imagine their reactions. Darius, calm but unwavering. The others, less forgiving.
The last time I had been summoned, they had made it clear that I was not to be reckless. Not to step out of line.
And now?
Alex had ju
