Kaya pressed a hand over her mouth, fighting the nausea clawing at her throat. Her stomach rolled at the memory of the bowls, but after a few deep breaths she steadied herself. Breathe in. Breathe out. She forced the sour taste back down.
Her eyes wandered across the cave-house again, searching for distraction. It was simple but strangely comforting. The air carried that earthy chill caves always had, but since the weather outside wasn't too harsh, the cold here felt… manageable. Almost cozy.
She turned to head back to her room when—
Knock. Knock.
The sharp sound echoed in the stone chamber, making her pause mid-step. Slowly, she glanced toward the entrance.
Veer's brother stood there, framed in the doorway, a basket in his hands covered with a small animal hide. His expression softened when their eyes met.
"Can I come in?" he asked.
Kaya blinked. Of course, it wasn't her place to refuse. This was his home, his brother's home. She gave a small nod.
