The train screeched to a halt, the brakes whining as the cabin jolted gently. Irina stirred, her hazel eyes fluttering open. She blinked, momentarily disoriented by the soft warmth against her cheek. Realizing she was still leaning against Astron, she jerked upright with a faint blush, quickly smoothing her hair.
"We've arrived," Astron said, his tone as calm as ever. He rose from his seat, brushing off his cloak with practiced precision. He glanced down at her, his sharp gray eyes (thankfully back to their usual disguise) unreadable as always. "You ready?"
Irina straightened her posture, her earlier embarrassment quickly replaced by her usual poise. "Of course," she replied, her voice firm as she grabbed her bag. She moved to the window, peering out at the platform below.
