The journey back to Kael's territory was long, tense, and marked by an uneasy silence that hung between Lyra and Kael. The darkened forest around them seemed alive with shadows, the cold breeze whispering secrets that sent chills down Lyra's spine.
Kael's grip on her hand tightened every so often, as if reassuring himself that she was still there beside him. But Lyra's mind was elsewhere. Despite his efforts to protect her, despite the fleeting moments of closeness they had shared, a storm was brewing in her heart. Kael had saved her, yes—but she still didn't know why. What was it that he truly wanted from her?
And, more importantly, why had Marcus been so certain that Kael had darker intentions?
The memory of Marcus's words echoed in her mind. Does Kael love you, or is he just using you for his own ends?
