Lira’s POV
I knew today would be heated, and it would leave Zane more agitated than ever. These meetings always did. They were full of tension, posturing, and veiled threats. And every single time, he chose to run with me afterward—to shake off the frustration, to clear his mind, or maybe just to escape.
So I waited for him, anxious but expectant.
I had missed these moments. The tangible connection we shared when we ran together, when the world blurred around us and only the rhythm of our breathing and pounding footsteps remained.
Maybe today, we could talk. Maybe today, he would let me in.
The moment our gazes met across the crowd, he shifted. His powerful form disappeared into the thick forest, slipping into the darkness between the trees.
That was my clue.
Without hesitation, I f
