Aylin watched Sasha quietly as he approached, the steady rhythm of her heart echoing loudly in her ears. He sat beside her carefully, maintaining enough distance to avoid making her uncomfortable yet close enough to offer silent support. She wondered how Silas could be so distant from her after a decade of Aylin being in his castle, whereas Sasha had made her feel safe in a matter of days.
"Silas is here," Sasha started gently, his voice soft but firm. "I wanted you to rest before telling you, but I understand you've already found out." He leaned forward, elbows on knees, the line of his arm muscle visible beneath the linen shirt.