Maya sank into her chair the moment she returned to her office. The discussion with the apprentices had lasted longer than she expected. They had asked questions, shared ideas, and even challenged her in small ways. It was exhausting, but in a strange way, it filled her with energy. She had seen sparks of potential in them, and though guiding them would not be easy, she was determined to try.

Her phone buzzed on the desk. The screen lit up with Elias’s name. A smile spread across her tired face as she answered quickly.

“Hi,” she said, her voice soft.

“Hi, love,” Elias replied warmly. “How’s your first day so...