The journey back to Alpha Academy was made in silence, broken only by the occasional c***k of a branch or the rustle of leaves as night creatures fled their path. The scent of scorched magic still lingered in the air, and the taste of ash coated Ari’s tongue like regret.
Celeste walked ahead with Luca, whispering quietly in the moonlight. Ari’s eyes trailed over them—Celeste’s fingers brushed lightly against Luca’s arm, and though his stance was rigid, the way he leaned slightly toward her made something ache in Ari’s chest. A longing she couldn’t name. Not for Luca—but for the kind of closeness that didn’t have to be hidden.
Ari glanced to her side.
Ronan was quiet.
Too quiet.
He hadn’t said a word since he helped her to her feet after the ambush. His fingers had lingered on her back
