He blinked and pulled back slightly.
And made an excuse.
"It's getting dark," he said suddenly, forcing a light tone. "And… I didn't sleep well last night. I should probably head back."
Cecelia froze for a moment, as if she hadn't expected him to speak. Her expression didn't
change, but her eyes had a flash of disappointment. Still, she gave a soft nod and smiled.
"Of course. We can head back."
(don't tell me that she….), Kael thought.
Kael stood up, brushing the grass from his trousers, and offered her a hand. She took it, rising gently to her feet. Neither of them spoke as they walked down the path back toward the terminal station.
The light around them had faded into deep violet, and small lanterns lit the way, floating like stars just above the path.
Kael walked in silence beside Cecelia, his hands tucked in his pockets, his shoulders slightly hunched.
