Chapter 140

The loft was bathed in the quiet warmth of city light streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows. It flickered against the worn leather sofa and polished wooden surfaces, carving faint patterns into the walls. Despite its usual inviting glow, the space felt restless tonight, like it had absorbed the impatient energy radiating from Jormun and me.

I perched on the armrest of the sofa, one leg folded beneath me, my fingers drumming absently against my knee. The rhythmic tapping helped keep my thoughts from spiraling, though I knew Jormun’s sharp gaze had noted the motion several times. He stood by the kitchen island, arms crossed, his broad shoulders silhouetted against the stark white tiles.

“You’re wearing a groove into the armrest,” Jormun said, breaking the silence. His voice was level, but I caught the faint note of amusement lurking beneath.

I shot him a mock glare, though it lacked bite. I knew he was just trying to quell my anxiety and help distract me fro