Dawn crept into the tent, casting soft amber light across the canvas walls.
Rui's eyes fluttered open to find herself nestled against Jin's chest, his arm draped protectively around her shoulders.
She savored the warmth of his embrace, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.
Jin woke moments later; he traced his fingers gently over the curve of her cheek.
They dressed in silence, as if to stretch these final moments of peace.
Rui noticed that the cracks on Jin's prayer beads had spread overnight, thin red lines now visible across each bead's surface.
Outside, morning mist clung to the forest floor. Jin paused at the tent entrance, turning to face her one last time.
His eyes held everything he couldn't.
He reached out, brushing his fingertips against hers, then stepped into the morning light without looking back.
The unspoken goodbye hung in the air between them, heavier than any words could have been.
