Third person's POV
Rowan stayed exactly where Liora told him to, outside the ward, sitting in one of the stiff hospital chairs like he owned the entire hallway. His posture was relaxed but impossibly controlled, the kind of stillness that came from power, not patience. Nurses passed by, slowing down without realizing it. Even without trying, Rowan drew attention.
Liora ignored the weight of his presence and stepped back into the ward. Professor John lay propped against her pillows, the clean white sheets contrasting sharply with her pale skin. Her eyes, however, were bright with curiosity, the same way they always were when research was involved.
“How was the summit?” she asked the moment Liora sat beside her.
Liora exhaled slowly. “Good. Better than I expected. Your name alo
