The airport was quieter than I expected because of how early it was. Not empty—just hushed in that strange, suspended way, like everyone was holding their breath between departures and arrivals. Kaelith rolled his duffel higher on his shoulder as we walked toward the security checkpoint. Holt stayed a half-step behind us, giving us space without making it feel like distance.
I cleared my throat, already feeling it tighten. “For my graduation invites…” I started, “I… I didn’t do traditional invitations.”
Kaelith glanced sideways at me, raising an eyebrow.
I managed a weak smile. “I worked with Tessa and set up a secure e-invite instead. Once someone confirms, it sends the headcount directly to the headmaster and the county superintendent.”
He blinked. “That’s… terrifyingly efficient.”
