The sun filtered through the canopy of leaves as Nate and Alice trudged through the dense forest. The sound of birds chirping and the occasional rustling of animals in the underbrush filled the air, but neither of them spoke. Alice walked a few steps behind Nate, her eyes lingering on his back. She couldn't tell if his silence was because he was focused or because he was angry, but either way, it unnerved her.
Her lips curled into a sly smile as she decided to test the waters. "You know," she began, her tone light and teasing, "you really surprised me earlier. I didn't think you'd have the guts to walk into my room unannounced."
Nate didn't respond. His expression remained cold and unreadable, his gaze fixed ahead. The lack of reaction irritated her slightly.
She quickened her pace, moving to walk beside him. "What's the matter?" she asked, leaning in slightly. "Cat got your tongue?"
Still, Nate didn't answer.