Fractured Expectations

Kai stepped into his house, the soft click of the door shutting behind him echoing through the dimly lit hallway. He exhaled, rolling his shoulders as if to shake off the lingering frustration from his earlier conversation with Evander. The bar had done little to soothe him, and though he hadn't drunk enough to be intoxicated, the weight of his thoughts clung to him like a heavy coat.

Dragging a hand through his hair, he made his way upstairs. The moment he pushed open the bedroom door, his eyes landed on Adalaine sprawled across the bed, her legs crossed at the ankles, phone in hand. She was dressed in silk pajamas, the soft fabric slipping slightly off one shoulder, revealing smooth skin. The glow from her screen illuminated her delicate features, but when she heard the door open, she lifted her gaze.

"Kai," she greeted, her voice carrying a hint of surprise. She put her phone down and sat up. "You're home early."