Just as Kayden stepped in, Thane was coming out. Their eyes met—briefly—and in that fleeting moment, something sparked. Subtle, yet electric.
Kayden didn't know what Thane felt, but for him, just staring into those crystalline eyes stirred something within. A strange, almost forgotten connection.
"How are you doing?" he attempted, offering a light greeting.
But Thane didn't even glance back. With a glare full of unresolved rage, he shoved past Kayden, their shoulders colliding violently.
Kayden stumbled slightly. Shocked… and hurt.
What an asshole. His thoughts churned. Why do men in this palace behave like total jerks—except Stephen, of course? Is it really that hard to act like a normal human being?
Frustrated, he continued walking until he stepped into a massive garden—not as majestic as the royal one, but impressive enough. The air was thick with the scent of exotic flowers, and while the blooms were stunning, Kayden wasn't in the mood for admiration.
