Liana walked through the narrow streets like always, hoodie up, steps sharp. But this time, something felt off. She felt watched.

Not just by Kael, who lingered a few paces behind, pretending he wasn’t.

By everyone.

Eyes from windows. Half-spoken whispers. The sound of her name paired with his in ways that made her fists clench.

She was used to being judged. But not like this. Not like they were waiting for something to fall apart.

And maybe they were.

---

At Mora’s Café, it got worse.

She stepped inside, needing coffee and quiet. Instead, she froze.

He was there.

The last boy who ever mattered.

Sitting at the counter like he belonged.

Like he hadn’t ripped her apart three years ago and vanished with her name still stuck to his lips.

Liana didn’t move. Her blood turned cold.

Kael stepped up beside her, sensing the shift instantly.

“Who is he?” he asked, low.

She didn’t answer.

But her silence said everything.

The boy turned. Smiled that same careless smile he always wore.

Her jaw tightened. “Not long enough.”

The café was quiet now. Everyone listening. No one pretending not to.

And Kael... he watched it all. Eyes unreadable, but hands slowly curling into fists.

Because in that moment, it wasn’t about jealousy.

It was about protection.

Even if she never asked for it.