Naomi’s Pov

The ride back to the base was quiet, but not empty. The silence between Cassian and me felt warm, like something had settled in it, something neither of us was brave enough to name yet. His hand stayed close to mine on the console, not touching but not retreating either.

When we pulled into the underground parking, he finally moved it.

Not far. Just enough to remind me that the world outside the car still existed.

Rubio hopped out and muttered something about checking the perimeter. He disappeared before I could ask if he needed help. I think he left on purpose, giving space he wasn’t supposed to...