Lyra's POV
Gareth's trust in me wasn't complete - I could sense her withholding information. But I didn't want to push her any harder. Instead, I posed a simple question.
"But it's going to happen soon, right?" I turned my gaze back toward the garden beyond the window. Moisture clouded the glass as the sky darkened overhead, threatening heavy rainfall.
"Yes." Tension flickered across Gareth's features.
"I'm relieved it'll be finished soon," I said, watching some of the strain ease from her expression.
Our exchange ended abruptly when the king arrived, prompting Gareth to exit. Caelum settled across from me, his questioning stare intense.
"You look a little bit pale."
I shifted to face him properly. His appearance radiated health, as though he hadn't consumed poison for months.
"I am fine. Only a little bit tired."
