As Drake stepped out of Naime’s condo, the hallway lights hummed above him, casting a pale glow over the polished floor. The door clicked shut behind him with a soft but final sound that echoed far louder in his chest. Each step toward the elevator felt heavy, as if his shoes had been filled with stone. His body resisted what his mind had already decided.
He told himself he had done the right thing. He had chosen stability. He had chosen commitment. He had chosen Zhinkee.
Still, the air felt thin.
A neighbor entered through the lobby doors just as Drake reached the ground floor. Drake offered a curt nod, jaw tight, unwilling to risk a conversation. Outside, the early evening breeze brushed against his face, cool and indifferent. He crossed the parking lot with quick strides, pressing h
