The rain had stopped hours ago, but the scent of it still lingered on the night breeze drifting in through the half-open balcony doors. The room was dim, lit only by the soft glow of the moon that slipped between parted curtains, painting pale silver across the sheets where she lay. Aria hadn't slept much. Every time she closed her eyes, the darkness behind her lids wasn't peaceful, it was a cage. The men's laughter, the metallic clang of the chains, the sound of her own heartbeat thundering as she tried to stay brave, it all echoed too clearly.
She flinched when the door creaked open, then relaxed only slightly when she saw him standing there. Luca. He didn't speak right away. He rarely did anymore, not since the rescue. He just stood by the door, watching her like he wasn't sure he was allowed to come closer. Like she might break if he did.
"You should be resting," he said finally, voice low, rough around the edges.
