The crisp, cool morning air bit at Liam's face as his running shoes slapped rhythmically against the damp asphalt of the park path.
Beside him, Wrath set a smooth, relentless pace, his long strides effortless, his breathing measured and low like a heavy machine idling.
"Haa... haa... haa..."
"Hff... hff... hff..."
The synchronized sound of their lungs working against the dawn chill filled the quiet trail.
Sweat glistened on the back of Liam's neck, soaking into the collar of his athletic shirt as they rounded a long curve flanked by tall, dew-covered pines.
A sharp, continuous vibration buzzed against Liam's left bicep. The black neoprene armband holding his phone hummed against his skin, the screen lighting up through the clear plastic cover with an incoming call.
Liam glanced down briefly, catching a glimpse of the flashing name before pulling his eyes back to the path ahead, deliberately ignoring it. He didn't break his stride.
