That night, Kael found Lira alone.
"You're pulling away," she said before he spoke.
Kael sighed. "I'm trying not to lose control."
"You won't," she said.
"You don't know that."
She stepped closer, taking his hand.
The flame calmed instantly.
"I do," she said softly.
"Because you always come back."
Kael searched her eyes.
"…And if I don't?"
Her voice didn't shake.
"Then I'll remind you who you are."
Silence.
Then Kael leaned closer—not fully touching, but close enough to feel her breath.
"You're still the strongest influence," he said quietly.
Lira smiled faintly.
"Not the only one anymore."
That truth lingered.
Not painful.
But real.