Aveline slowed as she approached him through the endless meadow, confusion slowly replacing the joy that had filled her only moments ago.
Something was wrong.
The Theron in her dreams had always felt warm to her. Even when he teased her, even when he acted distant, there had always been something unmistakable in his eyes whenever he looked at her. Recognition. Familiarity. Possessiveness. Tenderness hidden beneath sharp words.
But now… He was only staring at her, as though he did not know who she was.
Aveline's steps faltered.
"Theron?" she called softly again.
The wind moved through the wildflowers between them, carrying the scent of rain and sunlight, yet the warmth of the dream was beginning to disappear. Even the sky seemed dimmer somehow.
Theron did not answer.
His expression remained unreadable, his dark eyes fixed on her with a strange distance that made fear slowly creep into her chest.
Aveline tried to step closer, her heart beginning to pound harder.
