Eva's POV
As I pored over the map with Kai, the tension from earlier revelations lingered like a storm cloud. The atmosphere in the study was thick with tension, and every breath felt heavy with unspoken emotions. I could almost taste the anxiety in the air, a bitter tang that settled on my tongue.
Kai's hand trembled as he glanced toward the face mask. His mind was a tumult of fear and regret. I knew he was thinking about how he had hurt me again, despite his intentions. The guilt gnawed at him, sharp and relentless, making it hard for him to meet my eyes.
"We need to come up with a plan, and fast," I said, breaking the train of his thoughts and pulling him back from the edge of despair. My voice was firm, a lifeline in the sea of his guilt.
Kai looked at me, locking eyes. His gaze
