Chapter 64

I wander out silently, looking up in search of the moon and whatever planets might be visible, and close my eyes to breathe in a slow, long inhale of fresh, crisp air now the weather is cooling. It's not cold enough to be uncomfortable in my light sleepwear but not warm enough to stay here. I gaze at the sky for only minutes and then turn back inside, blankly scanning the view when I catch the dark shadowy figure in the corner of my eye across Dane's balcony. I stop mid-turn and squint at the darkness, and for sure, I can see his outline.

It’s like my lungs and internal organs freeze in sync, and I stand poised, adjusting to what I am seeing.

He’s on his balcony, leaning forward with his arms resting on the railing, head down so his forehead is on his forearm, making him look asleep. He is completely still and fully dressed in dark colors, almost invisible. No illumination from his room. He's not moving, and his posture is stiff, wearing his leather jacket over casual cl