AELIA REVA
The ring catches light again as I turn my hand over, just a small flash on the band where the diamonds catch the lamp. I don't have time to worry about how it sits on my finger; I have plans to make. Still, every time I look at it, the same warm certainty steadies me. Ulric chose it. I said yes. That truth keeps me sane in the middle of things that want to pull me apart.
Elias is already in Ulric's office when I walk in. He's leaning on the sill near the window, one boot propped on the ledge like he's still half on the streets. His jacket is dusted with the road; he's been back and forth all week, checking things, listening. He doesn't look like he slept much. He never does when something is hunting under his skin.
Hayden sits by the bookcase, arms folded, watching me come in like he's noting every little change in my face. Ulric stands by the desk, a small pile of rolled maps at his feet. He nods at me while speaking to me through our mindlink.
