LYRA'S POVThe next time I wake up, it isn't to pain or fear, but to the quiet sounds of birds outside the window. Real, soft, living things. Not battle cries, not screams. Just...peace.For a long time, I just lie there and breath. The air smells like rain and herbs, faint traces of Amanda's tinctures lingering in the infirmary.My body still aches, but it's a tolerable kind of ache. One that I can endure.A shadow stirs beside me, and I don't need to open my eyes to know who it is."You're awake." Ethan says softly, voice low and rough in that way that always makes something twist in my chest.My lips curl into a small, sleepy smile. "You sound very excited."He exhales, half a laugh, half relief. "You've been out for a few days now. Amanda was starting to threaten me with sedatives if I don't rest."I blink my eyes open, meeting his tired gaze. "Did you?"He shrugs one shoulder, mouth tugging at the corner. "Define 'rest'."I can't help it, I laugh, though it comes out weak and hoa
Last Updated : 2025-10-20 Read more