Hidden Undercurrents

A laugh escaped Lyra despite the knot in her chest, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. She promised Kira they’d be back soon, though the unease in her stomach twisted tighter as the call ended.

For now, she pushed it aside, leaning back against Kaelen’s warmth when he returned. But in the back of her mind, the warning echoed: peace never lasted.

They finally tore themselves from the comfort of