Maelis

“Are these the last of your things?” Ronan asked, eyeing the small bag in my hand before nodding toward the black car waiting in the driveway.

“Yeah. Didn't bring much anyway,” I replied.

I walked past him, tossing the bag into the backseat before sliding into the car. Ronan settled into the driver’s seat a moment later. He didn't start the car immediately; instead, his eyes found mine in the rearview mirror.

“Seatbelt, please,” he said calmly. “It’s going to be a long ride.”

I didn't have the energy to argue. I just pulled the strap across my chest, letting out a heavy yawn as the buckle clicked into...