Linsy hadn’t been back in this part of town long, barely a few weeks but something about the streets, freshly paved yet still echoing memories, made her feel more out of place than familiar. Even now, walking beside Mansa, she couldn't decide whether her quickened steps were from nostalgia or unease.

Mansa, however, seemed completely at ease. Tall, poised, and exuding a quiet confidence, he walked beside her like a man who belonged, like a man who wanted her to belong beside him. His lips ...