Eve's POV
The silence stretched between us as the world slowly began to wake. A faint blush of gold crept across the horizon, painting the jagged mountain edges in soft light. The air was crisp and cool, carrying the earthy scent of dew and pine. For a moment, despite my exhaustion and Lucius's impossible pace, I found myself enjoying the quiet.
Lucius didn't seem to share my appreciation for scenery. His eyes were constantly scanning the surroundings, sharp and calculating, like he expected an ambush at any moment.
I watched him for a bit, curious. There was something about the way he moved today—tighter, more alert. His posture was even more rigid than usual, if that was possible. It wasn't just the usual cold detachment; there was tension in the way his shoulders held, in the quick flicks of his gaze toward the forest shadows.
Something was wrong.
"Lucius," I called softly, my voice breaking the silence.
He didn't turn immediately. "Yes?"
