The rhythmic creak of the carriage wheels and the soft rustling of leaves underfoot set a steady backdrop as Luke finally gathered his thoughts. The quiet between him and Ilyrana stretched long, but not uncomfortable, just filled with unspoken words. He shifted slightly, the weight of his earlier actions still heavy on his mind. After all, it wasn't like him to feel this uncertain—especially about something that had saved them all. Yet, here he was.
He took a deep breath, breaking the silence.
"Ilyrana, I... wanted to say sorry."
His words hung in the air for a moment, drawing her gaze away from the fading embers in the distance. She didn't respond immediately, only tilting her head slightly, her silver hair catching the dim light. Luke pressed on, unsure of how to read her expression, as usual.
