The morning sun spilled through the palace corridors, painting everything in warm gold. Wish wandered the hallways with a crystal glass of chilled water, taking small sips as she walked.
Sleep had been impossible after yesterday's chaos, so she'd given up and decided a walk might help settle her nerves.
Forty-eight hours. The system's warning played on repeat in her mind. Death attempt number three incoming.
She turned a corner, lifting the glass to her lips.
That's when she saw them.
Hyrin and Aurex stood together in the wide corridor ahead, mid-conversation. Aurex's white coat hung open as always, revealing his sculpted chest and abs. His trousers sat low on his hips.
Hyrin wore his usual street style—rough, fitted clothes that showed off every inch of his muscular arms and torso.
Both their bare chests gleamed in the sunlight like some kind of six-pack parade.
Wish's steps faltered. She could turn around. Go another way. Avoid Hyrin's madness entirely.
