Octavia's Point of View
Kai’s breathing has evened out, deep and steady, finally slipping into sleep. I stay a moment longer, just watching him sleep. The tension in his jaw is gone, his shoulders loose against the pillows. For the first time in days, he looks… peaceful.
Quietly, I slip out of his dorm room, careful not to let the door click too loud behind me. The hallway is empty, the air heavy with that stillness that lingers after worry has burned you out. My stomach growls, a reminder that I have barely eaten since last night, so I turn towards the cafeteria.
It is late noon, which means the rush is over. The cafeteria hums softly, mostly half empty tables and a few scattered groups finishing meals. The smell of grilled meat and coffee lingers in the air. I grab a tray and move thr
