Thessian didn't reach for her again. His gaze held hers a moment longer, control layered over deeper instinct.
"Ready?" he asked quietly.
Liora nodded. She didn't trust her voice.
He turned toward the door. He didn't look back. He didn't need to, because the bond told him she was following.
They left the apartment together. The hallway felt narrower, the morning light harsher through the narrow windows. Below them, the gym's steady rhythm continued, ordinary and unmoved.
As they descended the stairs, they kept a careful distance: close enough that the bond hummed, far enough that they didn't touch.
Marco glanced up as they reached the lower level. His eyes moved between them once, quick and knowing.
"Car's ready," he said, tossing Thessian the keys.
Thessian caught them. "Thanks."
Marco gave Liora a brief, aware nod, then stepped aside.
