The Courage to Wait

With a soft breath, she turned and started walking toward the elevator. Each step felt heavier than it should.

Her phone vibrated. A message from Kira lit up the screen:

“Already downstairs. Coffee’s strong. I saved you a muffin. You’re welcome—but I’m giving it five more minutes before I eat it myself.”

Lyra let out a soft breath—half laugh, half sigh—and tucked the phone away.

No more hiding.