peaceful?

Kael stirred in Liss's bed, the sheets rustling, soft daylight sneaking through the curtains, casting pale orange across his bruised face.

He blinked, squinting, his dark eyes heavy with fatigue, the warmth of the bed a rare comfort.

The silence wasn't threatening—it was warm, peaceful, a fleeting haven.

He was alone, Liss's absence a surprise, her usual presence a constant he'd grown to rely on.

He stretched, his muscles aching, and sank back into the mattress, savoring the calm, his mind quiet for the first time in days.

Freya and Rhea were probably here by now, their questions looming.

The twins were resting, their trauma a fragile thread.

Liss was likely out there, bullying someone with that smirk of hers, a thought that brought a faint smile to his lips.

He turned on his side, snuggling into the blanket, its softness a shield against the world.