Silence spilled into the room like a slow tide, thick with everything unspoken.
Lena didn’t move right away. Neither did Marcus.
He remained by the window, arms now loose at his sides, his face turned slightly toward her but not fully — like he was giving her space. Like he didn’t want to scare her away.
The soft hum of distant voices from the hall faded. Only the ticking of the antique wall clock filled the quiet now.
Marcus exhaled slowly, turning and fully facing her.
“I asked you… at the Masquerade.” His voice trailed off.
Lena could see his fists clench next to his sides. His body was tense, his breathing rapid.
“I want him…” Nyx whispered inside of her.
“I can smell you…”
Marcus interrupted her thoughts.
Lena tensed at his words, as her eyes lowered. She tried not to think
