Night is consistent. Night always comes.
Concluding the new way I’ve positioned myself isn’t working, either, I shift my weight and prop my feet up on the sofa, tucking them underneath me.
Ugh. That’s not right, either.
I sigh in frustration, setting my book down on the couch beside me and pinching the bridge of my nose.
Why can’t I get comfortable?
I must just need a reset, that’s all. The angel mist outside should provide me with the reset I need.
I rise and stride across my small living room to open the door to my balcony, stepping outside and breathing in the crisp night air.
When you’ve lived in Eloras for as long as I have, you’re awarded with a slightly nicer living space. Entry-level Guardians’ living havens are a bit smaller than my current home. My haven is complete with a spacious kitchenette, an island, a living room area, a bedroom, a full bathroom, and a balcony. The balcony is arguably the main difference between an entry-level and a senior haven.
I don’t spend much time in my haven—the space is too nice. I feel much more at home in my office than I do here most of the time. Since Kai entered my life, I’ve found myself spending more time here than usual, though.
However, I don’t know how I’d manage without my office.
About a year ago, Nial discovered me there late at night. I chose to work overtime to escape that particular evening. I closed my eyes, tuned into my Guardians closely to see if any were on the verge of breaking the divine laws, and focused on that for a couple of hours when a knock at the door disrupted my focus.
“Cleo? You’re here awfully late…” I opened my eyes to see Nial’s amber eyes. Odd, seeing as we typically only crossed paths out and about in the square or gardens.
“Nial? You’re here at all?” I joked. “I’m working late.”
He nodded, then glanced at the bedding on my office’s sofa.
“Are you okay?” He cocked an eyebrow and tilted his head.
“Just fine.”
“Understood. Carry on,” he said, turning to leave. “And I’d recommend resting tonight. Your eyes tell a different story from your words.”
Although brief, his short visit made me realize how restless I’d been. I took his advice and napped for a short while in my office after he left.
Inhaling another breath of angel mist, I rest my hands on the balcony’s golden railing, contemplating whether I should attempt to find some comfort in my office instead.
“This isn’t working,” I grumble, agitated. I thought, for sure, that the night sky would bring me the comfort I sought.
Perhaps, my source of comfort isn’t the fresh air after all.
How unfortunate.
I’ve tried to avoid thinking about him, but it’s no use. My mind gets carried away sometimes. Especially when it comes to thinking about Kai Greene. I just can’t put my finger on why he hasn’t initiated evening walks recently—it’s unlike him.
Come to think of it, his demeanor has changed, too.
We’ve nearly finished the archives project, and instead of celebrating, he’s been distant. Smiling softer and winking obnoxiously far less often. It’s as if his mind is somewhere else most of the time.
His sunny charm has vacated.
This realm must be getting to him.
And that simply won’t do.
All of a sudden, I launch off the balcony, a tremendous gust of wind blowing my hair out of my face. I savor the air’s refreshing scent and temperature while spreading my wings wide.
My wingspan is about the length of my own body, in case you’re curious. I keep them furled most of the time, but flying like this is always rejuvenating. Moving on their own accord, my wings carry me across the sky, passing several opulent buildings containing living havens.
