Chapter 29: The Ties That Bind

Morning broke with the storm's remnants lingering in the air, a soft drizzle pattering against the cabin windows like a muted melody. The scent of rain-soaked earth seeped in through the cracks, mingling with the faint aroma of coffee. Logan was already awake, seated at the kitchen table with a mug in hand, the dark liquid gone cold from neglect. His jaw was tense, his thoughts tangled in the events of the previous night. The conversation with Liam had replayed in his mind like a broken record, each word pulling him deeper into the web of conflict.

Aurora emerged from her room, her disheveled hair framing her face in loose waves. She paused at the doorway, her oversized sweater hanging loosely off one shoulder, giving her an air of unintentional vulnerability. Her steps were sluggish, her exhaustion etched in the shadows beneath her eyes. For a moment, she simply studied Logan, her guarded expression masking the storm brewing within her.