*Later that evening…*

*Mira’s POV*

As the sun began its descent, painting the August sky in hues of fiery orange and red, my heart raced with anticipation. I couldn't wait to see Trae again and to feel his reassuring presence.

I called for Duke to join me and set off to see him, but I was intercepted by Blaine.

"Where do think you're going, Mira?" he asked, his voice sharp as he blocked my path.

“I told Trae I’d come ...