Chapter 64 - Silent Storms

Ava's POV

As Orion and Chloe pulled away, the engine's roar faded into the distance, leaving a strange silence behind. I stood there, the tension from the flight still coiled tight in my chest. My gaze lingered on the empty space they’d left, as if staring long enough could erase the hollow ache gnawing at my insides.

“Ava?” Mason’s voice pulled me back, gentle yet grounding. I turned to him, finding solace in the warmth of his hazel eyes. “You look like you could use some tea.”

I managed a small smile. “Is it that obvious?”

He chuckled, the sound somehow softening the jagged edges inside me. “Come on. There’s a little café just around the corner.”

We walked in silence, the airport chaos fading behind us. The café was tucked away, quiet and intimate, with the comforting aroma of fresh herbs and spices. We found a table near the window, and as the server set down our cups, I wrapped my hands around my elbow, letting the warmth seep in.