I knew something was wrong before I even opened the door.

I pushed the door open.

Cael was standing near the window with his bag on his shoulder. His dark jacket on, his shoes on, his hair neat. Ready.

I looked at the bag. Looked at him.

"You're leaving," I said.

"The month is almost up." His voice was even. His dark eyes met mine steady and unreadable. "I thought it was better to move my things now."

I set my keys on the counter slowly. "There are still six days."

"I know."

"Then why—"

"It's cleaner this way." He shifted the bag slightly on his shoulder. The movement drew...