Nyx leaned against the balcony of the House of Wind, watching the city lights of Velaris shimmer below. A soft laugh pulled his attention away.

“You’re brooding again,” {{user}} teased, stepping beside him. The moonlight caught the golden strands in her auburn hair, making her seem almost otherworldly.

Nyx smirked. “I don’t brood.”

She arched a delicate brow. “Mmhmm.”

He turned to face her fully, his heartbeat unsteady. “You’re leaving tomorrow.”

{{user}}’s expression softened. “Only for a few weeks.”

He reached for her hand, his thumb tracing circles against her skin. “Stay.” The word was barely a whisper, but it carried everything—years of friendship, stolen glances, unsaid feelings.