CIAN
I left Madeline's room with my thoughts churning like a storm I couldn't quiet.
My feet carried me through the hallways without conscious direction. I needed to move. Needed to burn off whatever this restless energy was that had taken root in my chest.
The training grounds sprawled out behind the main estate. Open space ringed with forest on three sides. I spotted Ronan immediately. He was alone, working through a series of strikes against one of the practice dummies. His movements were fluid and controlled.
"Ronan," I called out.
He turned, wiping sweat from his brow. "Cian."
"Spar with me."
He raised an eyebrow but didn't question it. He just nodded and moved to the center of the ring. I joined him there, rolling my shoulders to loosen them.
We circled each other. It was a familiar dance before we engaged.
"I was right," I said. "About Madeline."
Ronan's stance shifted slightly. Prepared but listening. "Right about what?"
