Kael's POV
Maya's voice broke the silence. "I saw the way you were looking at Aria earlier."
I froze, my hands stilling as I packed a small bundle of supplies. The night air seeped through the cracks of the old cabin, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth.
"She's from your past," Maya continued quietly. "But you still care for her, don't you?"
I turned toward her. The torchlight softened her features—eyes uncertain, voice fragile.
"I don't," I said gently. "Not like that."
She frowned. "Then why did you look at her like that?"
"Because I once loved her," I admitted. "And maybe a part of me always will. But that part of my life is gone, Maya. I've moved on—and so has she."
Maya looked down, twisting her fingers. "Do you still love Lila?"
I stepped closer, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "No. I love you. Not anyone else."
Her breath caught as I took her hand, pressing it against my chest. "You have nothing to worry about. Not her, not anyone. Alright?"
