LILY
The morning sun filtered through the kitchen windows as I stood at the stove, wearing only Ace's oversized t-shirt. The fabric hung to my mid-thigh, soft and warm against my skin, carrying his scent like a security blanket.
Everything had been perfect since the marking ceremony days ago. Too perfect, maybe.
I flipped the pancakes, ignoring the nagging feeling in my chest. This peace we'd found—it felt borrowed. Like the universe was holding its breath, waiting for the other shoe to drop.
But why couldn't I just enjoy it? Why couldn't I let myself have this happiness without constantly looking over my shoulder?
The bond hummed between Ace and me, stronger than ever. I could feel him approaching before his footsteps reached the kitchen.
"Morning, beautiful," his voice was rough wi
