Chapter 22: Distance and Deception

Chapter 22: Distance and Deception

Lyraeus’ POV:

The days that followed were a blur of activity. I threw myself into the mission, strategizing with Ryker and Akita, coordinating our spies, and reinforcing our defenses. Every waking moment was consumed with preparations, leaving no room for distractions —especially not the distraction that Aria had become.

She tried to get close to me, her concern and confusion evident. Every time she approached, I found an excuse to busy myself with something else. It wasn’t easy, and the look of hurt in her eyes cut deeper than any blade.

I pored over the maps, my mind racing with strategies and contingency plans. My chambers was quiet, the only sound was the scratching of my pen on parchment. Suddenly, a soft voice broke the silence.

“Lyraeus?”

I didn’t look up, my gaze fixed on the maps. “I’m busy, Aria. Later, maybe.”

The silence that followed was heavy, weighted with unspoken words. I could feel her eyes on me, her concern and confusion palpab