As Maya stood before Astron, her heart beat steadily in her chest, but there was a subtle tension coiling beneath the surface. She had always prided herself on maintaining her composure, serene smile, calm demeanor, and mask, which she wore so well. But today, that mask felt fragile.
When she heard Astron's voice—steady, calm, yet inquisitive—she couldn't help but feel a tinge of satisfaction. He had uncovered a truth she had kept hidden, a part of her that few people knew. His perceptiveness, his ability to piece together the smallest clues, had always impressed her. But this time, it went beyond mere admiration.
"You're right," she said softly, her voice carrying a weight of relief and satisfaction. "I knew you would see it, Junior."
