The walk back to the Woodland packhouse felt longer than usual because of the awkwardness between both parties.
Emily walked ahead of Arthur, far enough that he could feel the space she was creating. Leaves crunched beneath their shoes in uneven rhythm, hers quicker, his slower, as though neither of them could decide on the same pace.
The silence pressed in, very uncomfortable between them.
Arthur opened his mouth twice before actually speaking.
“Are you good?” he finally asked
Emily didn’t turn around when she answered
“Yes.”
The word came very fast. Arthur studied her back, the way her shoulders were held a little too straight.
Another stretch of silence followed, thick and stubborn
A bird darted across their path, wings fluttering sharply, and Emily slowed just a little as
