In the early morning, Tanner and Jess step out of their room, both dressed with quiet purpose. They are ready for the day ahead, or so they believe, until they see Ashen.
He's standing just a few steps from their door, fully dressed too, looking like he's been waiting all his life.
Tanner and Jess freeze momentarily. Ashen's posture is rigid, his hands clasped in front of him, and his expression is strained.
He blinks slowly, his gaze unfocused. Shadows bruise the skin beneath his eyes, and the faint puffiness makes it look like sleep hasn't touched him in days.
Jess breath hitches as the sight hits him unexpectedly, a pang of emotion tightening his chest. Beside him, Tanner's fingers curl into a fist inside his trousers pocket, his jaw clenched.
"Oh, I'm ready too. Should we?" Ashen asks, his voice carrying an attempt at his usual cheerfulness.
But it falls painfully flat.
