The sun that had once hung high overhead was now sinking toward the horizon, staining the sky a deep, burning red.
Ever since the terrorist incident at the imperial palace, the atmosphere in the city had been tense—uneasy in a way that lingered in the air. It wouldn't be safe for her to stay out after dark.
"Time really flew by," Elena said, glancing toward the window before pushing herself up from the chair. "I should head back now."
Only then did I fully realize how late it had gotten.
"Get well soon and come back to the Academy," she added with a light laugh. "It's really boring with the seat next to me empty."
As she reached the door of the hospital room, Elena turned back toward me. Her face was bright, unclouded by worry, and she smiled as if to reassure me.
The red light of the sunset poured in through the window, catching in her hair and tinting it gold and crimson as it swayed gently. For a moment, the sight stole my breath.
