Felix stood beside Carter in the museum, gazing at photos of Purple Island's devastation: once-lush grapevines now reduced to scorched earth and ruins. A stark image of the atomic blast's aftermath confirmed the bitter truth—Intermarium had fired first, igniting the Sangria War.
"I've got use the washroom." Carter stepped away.
Felix wandered through the exhibit, passing glass cases filled with scale-model airplanes. As he turned a corner, his eyes widened—Nova stood by a large photograph of a bomber flying low over Purple Island.
"Nova!" Felix said cheerfully.
She turned with a soft smile. "Hey, Felix. Good to see you."
He crossed his arms, bitterness edging his voice. "Why didn't you tell me you were moving out of the refugee centre?"
"It happened fast," Nova said, shifting uncomfortably. "Pat needed the room for new arrivals, and Jared found me an affordable place near work. I didn't have time to tell everyone."
"You know I was trying to find a spot for both of us," Felix responded sharply.
"You're not working," Nova replied gently. "You need a steady income first."
Felix sighed. "That's hard when no one can reach my references from Intermarium."
"I know. But keep trying—something will come up." She handed him a card from her purse. "My email. I'll text you once I get a phone."
Felix accepted the card. "Any rooms left where you're staying?"
She shook her head. "All taken."
His heart sank, but he hid it. "Okay."
Nova checked her watch. "I have to catch my bus for work. Take care."
She waved and headed for the exit.
Felix lingered, staring at the card.
"There you are," Carter said. "I thought I lost you."
Felix barely turned. "I was talking to Nova. It doesn't make sense why, she is living with Jared."
"Opal City's expensive," Carter replied. "With all the war refugees, people grab what they can."
Felix clenched his jaw. "She didn't give me enough time to find a place for us."
"You'll get there," Carter reassured him, clapping a hand on his shoulder. "The refugee centre isn't your final stop."