C33 Fractures

The moon hung high over the Paxton packhouse, casting silver bars across the stone corridors. The hall still reeked of smoke and scorched timber, but silence pressed heavy over the ruins.

Lucas sat by Zoe’s bedside, his hand never leaving hers. Her small body shifted fitfully, caught in dreams too heavy for her years. He stroked her hair, whispering, “I’m here, little one