The sound of steel clashing against steel filled the air, blending with the roars and cheers of the crowd. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, the scent of sweat and dust thick as warriors clashed in the open arena. My gaze flickered between the fighters, but my mind was elsewhere.
I was too caught up in my own thoughts.
Too caught up in the way Lylda had been watching me.
From the moment I stepped onto the field, I felt it—his golden-brown eyes locked onto me from the edges of the crowd. He wasn't smiling like usual, nor was he shyly looking away the moment I caught him staring. No, this time… this time, it was different.
His gaze had been searching.
And I hated that it unsettled me.
I inhaled sharply, pushing the thoughts aside. This was the day of the tournament. I had worked tirelessly to ensure everything went smoothly, and now that it was finally happening, I couldn't afford to be distracted.
I straightened my shoulders, forcing myself to focus.
