Verity's pov

When training ended, I could tell Caleb’s mind wasn’t with me. His movements had been good but unfocused, his eyes darting to me and away again like he couldn’t decide whether to be present or somewhere else. I followed along, mimicking his demonstrations, but something between us had shifted—something I couldn’t name.

When he finally dismissed me, his goodbye was short and clipped, nothing like the teasing warmth I’d gotten used to. My stomach twisted. Had I done ...