Chapter 23
The Labyrinth felt quieter than usual. After the Hydra mission, the corridors were almost eerily calm, like the world was holding its breath. I walked behind Athanasius and Portgas, my gloves softly brushing against the railing as I followed. Viveron was ahead, checking the monitors, but even she seemed subdued.
I couldn’t take my eyes off Athan. His posture—relaxed but alert—his emerald eyes scanning the room with that subtle intensity—it made my heart race in ways I couldn’t explain. Hindi ko alam kung excitement from the mission or… him.
“You’ve been quiet,” Athanasius said suddenly, his voice low, almost teasing as he fell into step beside me.
“I’m… just thinking,” I said, adjusting my gloves. “About the mission. About Hydra. About… everything.”
His eyes narrowed slight
