The early morning air carried a crisp chill, the scent of damp earth mingling with the soft fragrance of blooming marigolds as Eifa knelt beside her plants, carefully inspectingdew-kissed leaves. The lawn was quiet except for the distant chirping of birds.

Behind her, the sound of approaching footsteps broke the silence. She turned her head slightly to see Kian, fresh from his morning prayers, hesitating at the entrance, shifting his weight from foot to foot. His hands were tucked into his pockets, an unusual sign of nervousness.