The air was thick with the scent of burning wood and wild herbs as Nicole stepped into the tribal camp. Beside her, Jasper moved with his usual quiet confidence, though his violet eyes never softened as they swept over the unfamiliar place.
Kanza was waiting as if he knew she would come.
When his gaze landed on Nicole, his expression shifted instantly warmth, relief, and the tenderness of an older brother greeting what was most precious. He wrapped her in a firm embrace, holding her as though she were still the little sister he once knew.
But when his eyes slid over Jasper's shoulder, the warmth froze into steel. His dark stare cut into Jasper like a blade, daring him to move closer.
Jasper didn't falter. He offered a smile — sharp, beautiful, but hollow. Nicole saw it for what it was. A mask.
