Barbara watched him, noting the subtle way his fingers tapped rapidly on his communication bracelet. His eyes were fixed on it with an intensity that made her feel like a distant shadow in the room. She felt her chest tighten, her fork clinking quietly against the plate as she picked at the last remnants of her breakfast.
Lycus seemed to sense her gaze, his movements careful as he poured her another glass of milk. He looked at her, the usual warmth absent from his eyes, yet his actions remained gentle, almost too careful. He lingered for a beat longer, adjusting the glass to be within easy reach. But there was a chill in his demeanor, an unseen barrier she felt every time he pulled away.
After she finished eating, he took her plate without a word, handling it as carefully as if made of
