Sage's ears flattened.
"You're shitting me."
"Yes," Kael said, adjusting his collar.
Rue's tails drooped, wrapping around herself like a cocoon. "But we registered the mission together. The northern forests. Three days. You promised—"
"I didn't promise anything." Kael checked his reflection in the window. "I said I'd consider it. Circumstances changed."
Sage stepped closer, golden eyes narrowing. "What circumstances?"
"Classified ones."
Then Sage exhaled. The tension bled out of her shoulders. Her lips curved—not warm, but sharp. "Fine. But you're missing out."
"Am I?"
Kael's mouth twitched. A genuine flicker of amusement crossed his features before he suppressed it. "Tragic. Truly."
"I thought so." Sage folded her arms. "Have fun with your classified bullshit."
"Oh, I will." Kael stepped past her, shoulder brushing hers. He paused at the door without looking back. "Don't wait up."
He left.
