I walk out of the Kael building, my stride calm, my shoulders free of their usual tension.
Because from now on, Zyke won't bully me.
Maybe—
I hope.
Deniz walks a half-step behind me, a model of calm discipline. I glance over my shoulder. His eyes are downcast. Is he still angry with me?
The guards bow slightly as we pass through the main doors. The night's chilling air hits my face, sharp and bracing. I stop suddenly on the top step.
Deniz stops just behind me, a beat later. "What happened?" he asks, his voice carefully neutral.
I turn and step closer to him. He takes a subtle half-step back, a flicker of hesitation in his posture.
"Are you mad at me?" The question comes out softer than I intended, tinged with a worry I can't hide.
He blinks, then quickly shakes his head. "No. Why would I be mad?"
My face must look like that of a scolded child, all uncertain eyes and vulnerable frown.
"Then why are you ignoring me?"
