LYRA

The moment we stepped into Lucian’s room, I knew something had shifted.

Not just because he was sitting up now, back braced against the headboard despite the clear strain in his posture. Not just because the healers were gone, leaving the space too quiet, too controlled.

It was the bond.

Tighter.

Sharper.

Aware.

Like it had been waiting.

“You shouldn’t be out of bed,” I said immediately, shutting the door behind us.

Lucian’s gaze flicked over me, then to Kael, then back ...