Zane slipped away from the group the moment their feet hit the cobblestone streets of the town. His shadow tugged faintly at him, hungry from all the commands he had pushed onto it earlier. He needed a disguise, something practical—something to hide behind.
He found the tailor's shop easily enough and stepped inside with that usual grin plastered on his face.
"I want you to make me a hoodie…"
---
Switch to Mira's POV
Mira glanced over her shoulder for what felt like the tenth time. Zane wasn't there. Her hands clenched into fists, and she muttered under her breath, "Idiot. He promised he wouldn't wander off."
Celeste, walking beside her, smirked. "You seem worried."
"I'm not worried." Mira's cheeks warmed as she snapped back too quickly. "I'm just… keeping track. Someone has to."
Celeste tilted her head. "Or maybe you're his babysitter."
Mira stopped herself from drawing her dagger right there in the middle of the street.
---
Switch to Asher's POV
Asher was only half-listening to Mira and Celeste. His attention was on Luna, who walked quietly just a step behind him.
He leaned in, lowering his voice. "You know, disappearing suddenly like that? Classic Zane move. Probably chasing trouble—or a tailor for some ridiculous outfit."
Luna blinked, then covered her mouth, trying not to laugh. "A tailor?"
"Trust me." Asher grinned, hand brushing against hers as casually as he could. "The guy could trip over a bucket of mud and call it destiny. Wouldn't surprise me if he came back in a clown costume."
Luna shook her head, cheeks turning pink. "He's… different."
Asher raised an eyebrow at her, a flicker of jealousy sparking. "Different good, or different trouble?"
She didn't answer.
---
Switch to Celeste's POV
Celeste watched them all, lips curling into a knowing smile. Mira fuming, Asher flirting, Luna blushing… and the one boy who tied them all together had vanished.
Typical.
She folded her arms and thought, If nothing else, this trip won't be boring.