Lyra
The world came back into focus slowly, like emerging from a deep, hazy dream. My head throbbed, and every nerve in my body felt raw, oversensitive.
As clarity returned, so did the memories of what had transpired in that flower-filled clearing. Shame and confusion washed over me in equal measure.
Asher and Lucian stood a few feet apart, the tension between them palpable. Neither would meet my eyes directly, but I could feel the weight of their gazes on me. The air around us still held traces of that sweet, intoxicating scent, but here, away from the heart of the clearing, its effects were diminished.
"I..." I began, my voice hoarse. But before I could say anything, Asher held up a hand, silencing me.
"Don't," he said, his voice low and strained. Something was in his eyes, but I could not read it. It made my heart clench. "Please, Lyra. Don't speak right now."
