POV: Finn

The east sitting room is quieter than any room in the compound has a right to be after everything that has happened. Late light comes through the tall windows in long, soft bars. I stand near the doorway longer than I need to, because walking the rest of the way in feels like crossing a line I once thought would stay closed forever.

Ayla sits on the low couch with her legs folded under her. Caius is in the chair opposite, reading something on a tablet he is not really looking at. Ryker leans against the wall near the fireplace. Zane occupies the other end of the couch,...