Moments earlier, Ryder sat on a bench by the lake, watching Rosie and Clyde laugh as they chased geese along the water's edge.
The lake glowed gold under the fading light, so peaceful it almost hurt to look at.
Then soft breeze brushed past him, and it carried a scent he knew instantly.
Nathan's scent...
Ryder's smile faded. His hazel-green eyes widened, and his heart skipped before slowing into a dull ache.
He pressed a hand to his chest as the same dream returned to him—the one that had come back every night for the past three days.
A long time ago. Back when he was younger.
In the dream, he was in Palmyra—inside a hospital, after an art exhibition Nathan had attended as well.
An engraving had collapsed without warning. Ryder had pulled Nathan out of the way in time. Thankfully it only resulted in minor injuries.
Afterward, Ryder sat alone on a bench, hands still shaking.
Then Nathan came running.
