Lyra had not expected to be allowed outside again so soon.
When Kael told her she would remain inside the designated quarters, she turned immediately.
“No.”
The word was simple.
Final.
Kael looked at her.
“You are not in condition to move freely.”
Lyra stepped closer.
“I didn’t ask for permission to exist inside a room.”
Silence.
That was becoming a pattern between them.
Not empty silence.
Controlled silence.
Kael studied her for a moment longer than necessary.
Then turned slightly.
“Stay close.”
Lyra frowned.
“That’s not an answer.”
“It is for now.”
He moved first.
And this time
She followed.
Not because she was told.
But because she wanted to.
The moment they stepped into the open grounds of Virelith Pack territory, the air changed.
Not just the atmosphere.
Pres
