The moment I recognized Taylor’s outline beneath the streetlight, my legs moved on their own. Relief hit me so hard it was almost dizzying, scattering every thought except one: he’s here. He’s safe.

“Taylor,” I breathed again, louder this time, almost tripping over my own steps as I closed the distance.

Even in the dim light I could see them, the faint purplish marks fading across his cheekbone, the thin shadow of a bruise trailing along his jaw. They were lighter than the last time I’d seen