The lanterns hanging from the old wooden beams flickered in the evening breeze, spilling warm gold over your face as you stood alone in the courtyard. The whole world felt muted—breathing quietly, listening. Karma found you there, leaning on the railing like you were waiting for a secret to reveal itself. He stepped into the glow, hands buried in his pockets, eyes tracing the outline of your silhouette with a softness he’d never admit to.

“You always hide in pretty places when you’re trying not to think,” he murmured, stopping just close enough that your shadows touched. The lantern light danced across his hair, catching on the faint smile tugging at his lips. He tilted his head, studying you in that way that made your heartbeat feel too loud in your chest. “You’re whispering without saying anything,” he said quietly. “And I hear it anyway.” The wind rustled, the lantern swayed, and Karma didn’t move away.