Haruki was spiraling, trapped in his own thoughts about how arrogant he had been. Seeing someone who could potentially win the challenge before him made his hands restless and his feet unable to stay still.
Like everyone else, he held his breath in anticipation. But instead of discouraging him, the pressure only stoked the fire of his determination.
Then, to everyone's surprise, Ayella turned back toward the challenger—only for the prince himself to follow after her.
A wave of shifting noises rippled through the crowd as people straightened in their seats.
Haruki stood frozen, stunned into silence, his hands clenched beneath his sleeves.
In that moment, he forgot everything—forgot that Lanling was his lover, forgot the obsession the prince had for him. The terrifying thought of abandonment clawed at his chest, sending his emotions into turmoil. The wind responded, picking up around him in a chaotic swirl.
