Chapter Eighty Six

Third-person pov

The cottage was bathed in the soft glow of candlelight, casting warm shadows across the walls. When Kazia stepped inside, her eyes immediately found Kavan, standing by the fireplace, his silhouette outlined against the flickering flames. Her heart leaped in her chest at the sight of him, a mixture of relief and joy flooding her senses.

"Kavan," she called out, her voice a breathless whisper, the name feeling like a secret, sacred thing on her lips.

He turned, his eyes meeting hers with a smile that melted her worries away. In a heartbeat, he crossed the room, his steps purposeful yet unhurried. When he reached her, he pulled her into a tight embrace, and Kazia clung to him as if he were her lifeline. His arms wrapped around her, strong and reassuring, creating a cocoon of safety that she had longed for.

They stood there, holding each other in silence, the world outside reduced to a distant murmur. Kazia buried her face in the crook of his neck, breathing in his fami