Elara’s POV
It was a quiet Saturday afternoon. Damien and I were having lunch on the balcony when the doorbell rang. We rarely had unexpected visitors, so Damien frowned slightly and went to check the security camera.
His expression changed immediately.
“It’s Kael,” he said quietly.
My stomach tightened. I hadn’t seen or heard from Kael since graduation day. Part of me wanted to tell Damien to send him away, but another part — the part that had chosen peace — knew this moment might be necessary.
“Let him in,” I said softly.
Damien nodded and instructed security to bring him up.
When the door opened, Kael stepped inside looking nothing like the arrogant boy I once knew. He was thinner. His clothes were simple and worn. His eyes were red and swollen, like he hadn’t slept in days. The
