One night, Kael went looking for Lyra. She had told him she was studying with friends. But when he turned the corner near the old gym, he stopped.
There she was—laughing, close, too close—with another boy. His hand brushed hers, and she didn't pull away.
For a moment, Kael stood frozen. The world felt silent.
"Lyra," he said softly.
She turned, shock written on her face. "Kael… I this isn't
But the truth was already clear.
Kael's hands curled into fists, but his voice stayed calm. "So this is what you chose."
The other boy stepped back, nervous. Lyra's eyes filled with tears, but Kael didn't wait for excuses. He simply turned and walked away, the moonlight cold on his back.