Caleb's eyes narrowed as a flicker of movement in the trees caught his attention. A soft rustling, followed by the unmistakable shape of a figure stepping from the shadows, a subtle shimmer of periwinkle blue against the dimming light. He stiffened, and Molly’s gaze snapped to him.

"Ash?" Caleb's voice was quiet, betraying an odd mixture of wariness and relief. His heart hammered in his chest.

Molly’s expression shifted, no longer teasing but more wary, as he straightened, his attention on the figure that had once been a mystery and now, far more, a complication. He carefully steps in front of Caleb, subtly but defensively.