Whispers Across the Divide

My heart hammered against my ribs as Kaelen guided me to the bed in our new safehouse—a small cabin on the outskirts of town that he'd somehow arranged within hours. The simplicity of the space—wooden walls, minimal furniture, a stone fireplace—felt oddly comforting compared to sterile hotel rooms.

"Sit," Kaelen instructed, his voice gentle but firm. "You'll need to be comfortable."

I perched on the edge of the mattress, anxiety and hope battling within me. "What if it doesn't work this time?"

"It will." He pulled a chair beside the bed, close enough that I could smell his familiar scent—pine and something distinctly him. "Yesterday was just the beginning. The connection exists; now we strengthen it."

Willow hovered in the doorway. "Should I make myself scarce?"

I nodded gratefully. "Maybe for a little while? I need to concentrate."

"Got it." She tapped her watch. "I'll raid the kitchen and be back in an hour."