"Milo—!" she called, her voice tight, cutting through the soft drums and bursts of laughter that seemed far too loud now. She didn't care if people turned to stare—she didn't even care if Karl noticed yet. All she saw was Milo, standing there in the circle of dancers, his body looking so fragile under the glow of the holy flames behind him.
Milo's lips were curved in that same inocent smile. Always trying to make it look like he was fine. Always pushing himself to keep up. But Ruby could see his fingers trembling where they gripped Karl's sleeve. His chest rose and fell in short, uneven breaths that made her own heart clench painfully tight.
She moved fast, weaving through the dancing villagers, ignoring the startled looks and soft gasp.
"Milo!" she called again, more firmly this time.