That night, Lira stayed.
Closer than before.
"You're pulling people toward you," she said quietly.
Kael frowned. "That's not intentional."
"I know."
She took his hand.
The flame stilled.
"But it matters."
Kael looked at her.
"You're still the one it listens to most," he said.
Lira's voice softened.
"…Not just the flame."