章 74: Along for a Walk

Madison's thoughts drifted as she stood on the balcony, the cool night air brushing against her skin. The past weeks had been a whirlwind of activity, filled with village rebuilds, council meetings, policy discussions, and attempts to bridge the gap between the old guard and the new. She felt exhausted, yet strangely invigorated.

A movement in the courtyard below caught her eye. Wald was there, pacing back and forth, his brow furrowed in concentration. Without thinking, she found herself heading towards the stairs, drawn to him like a moth to a flame.

As she approached, Wald looked up, his face softening at the sight of her. "Couldn't sleep either?" he asked, a wry smile playing on his lips.

Madison shook her head. "Too much on my mind, I guess."

Wald nodded, understanding in his eyes. He held out his hand, and she took it, letting him pull her close. They stood in comfortable silence for a moment, just enjoying each other's presence.