Eila rubbed her hands together nervously, her eyes darting around the café. The cozy warmth, the soft chatter of other patrons, and the delicious aromas should have soothed her, but instead her heart raced. Hunger clawed at her stomach, yet the anticipation of what Lukas wanted to say was far stronger.
Across from her, Lukas leaned back casually, his handsome face lit by a smile that carried both charm and something gentler—something that made her chest ache. He had already placed their order, and now he was watching her with an intensity that made her feel both flustered and oddly pleased.
Unable to stand the silence any longer, Eila finally asked, "What was the important thing you wanted to tell me?"
Lukas chuckled softly, the sound warm, and slipped a small, neatly engraved envelope from his coat pocket. He handed it across the table.
Her fingers trembled slightly as she unfolded it—and recognition struck. The crest of MoonShine University stared back at her.
Her breath caught. Of course. The time had come.
She had been so consumed with the Veil, with Jeremy, with battles she was still unsure she could win, that she had nearly forgotten. The last three months had flown past like smoke in the wind, and now… college.
Her gaze lingered on the letter, melancholy tugging at her features. Ten days. That was all the time she had before this new chapter of life began. Ten days, and she was still no closer to defeating Jeremy, still no closer to sealing the Veil.
The letter contained more than just a reminder—it carried a neatly written list of instructions, books, and supplies she would need. Lukas leaned over, his shoulder brushing hers as he looked at the list too.
"You don't need to worry about these," he said gently. "I'll give you my books from last year. And if I need them back… well, I'll just come find you."
His eyes glinted mischievously, as if he had intentionally left the excuse dangling.
Eila couldn't help smiling at his playfulness, warmth spreading through her chest despite the weight pressing down on her.
The food arrived soon after, breaking the moment. The rich aroma of thick, spicy chicken broth rose with the steam, accompanied by bowls of rice, crisp salad, and golden fish nuggets. The café's hum seemed to fade as Eila dug in, savoring every bite.
It was comforting—delicious enough to momentarily make her forget the heaviness of the morning. And when dessert arrived—pillowy marshmallows dipped into smooth, hot chocolate—she savored it slowly, letting sweetness melt over her tongue until she was stuffed and smiling.
By the time they stepped out into the cool night, Eila felt lighter. The warmth of the meal, the company, the little moments of laughter—all of it dulled the morning's confusion.
Still, practical worries returned as they neared her home. She spoke of the list, of how she would need to purchase everything before college began.
"There's a store in the neighboring pack," Lukas said easily. "They carry everything on the list. Let's go there together. In two days. You're off from the infirmary then, aren't you?"
She nodded, grateful. "Yes."
He leaned closer, pressing a tender kiss to her forehead before stepping back, his eyes lingering on her for a moment longer before he left.
Eila stood at her doorway, the night pressing close, warmth still blooming where his lips had touched. For a brief moment, everything had felt normal—almost safe.
But as she slipped inside, the memory of her morning returned, sharp and unsettling. The things she had tried to bury under food and laughter came rushing back.