The first light of dawn filtered through the high windows of the manor, painting the library in soft golds and muted grays. Liam sat cross-legged on the floor, spellbooks open around him like a protective circle. The weight of unread pages, ancient symbols, and impossible calculations pressed down, but he thrived in it, a predator in his element.
Alex leaned against the edge of the massive oak table, watching him with a careful, almost reverent curiosity. "You're quiet this morning," he teased, letting his fingers ghost over the curve of Liam's shoulder. "Something on your mind… or just the books?"
Liam didn't flinch at the touch. Instead, his fingers paused over a jagged rune, tracing it with delicate precision. "No distractions," he muttered, voice low and steady. "We don't have time for them, not today."
Alex smiled faintly, crouching behind him, hands settling lightly on Liam's sides. "You make it sound like I'm a hazard."
