The journey felt shorter than Ren remembered. Perhaps because the last time, he had spent every moment desperately trying to hide from the delegation.
But now, there was no need for secrecy—no need to try to disappear behind the curtains of the carriage.
With Zayden's arms around him the entire way, Ren simply slept, peaceful throughout the ride.
When the carriage finally came to a halt, the General gently shook the man from his deep slumber.
Ren's eyelashes fluttered before he opened his eyes, looking around, momentarily disoriented.
"Are we already here?" he asked, raising a hand to cover his mouth as he yawned. A few tears gathered in the corners of his eyes, and he wiped them away, vision clearing.
Zayden hummed, releasing him from his hold.
"Wear your jacket," he said, taking the heavy coat from the hanger.
Ren stretched his arms as Zayden helped him slip into the thick fabric.
