Love Birds.

Ace and Rika head back inside. Ace, with the intention of explaining to Kieran that he needs to stay for a while longer.

But as soon as he steps inside, his eyes sweep over the room, searching for him.

The stone table where they had all been gathered is still occupied, but Kieran's towering presence is missing.

A slight frown tugs at Ace's brows as he strides toward Jun, who is still seated, saying something to Elira and Marsel.

"Where's Kieran?" Ace asks, leaning slightly toward him.

Jun barely glances up. "He went out, I thought he was where you are coming from."

Ace stiffens, his frown deepening. Kieran wouldn't just leave without saying anything, unless something was weighing on his mind.

Without another word, Ace turns on his heel and heads for the exit, stepping into the cool night air.

The wind rustles through the trees, carrying the crisp scent of damp earth.