DARIAN

The night’s weight sits heavy in my chest, tangled thoughts swirling like a storm inside me. Iris. That name flickers relentlessly in my mind. The way she looked at me. The way I couldn't look away. The pull between us, dangerous, like chasing a flame you’re never meant to catch. But part of me wonders if I should chase it anyway.

I step into the courtyard, muscles tense, thoughts spinning. Then I spot Adira, waiting. Arms crossed, eyes sharp like daggers.

“Where the hell have you been all night?” she asks, voice low but sharp enough to cut through the morning silence.

I hesitate, then shrug it off. “Out.”...