Chapter 79

• The morning sun had barely broken through the thick curtains of the east wing, but Ken was already wide awake.
• His eyes opened to the soft glow of the ceiling light. He didn't like sleeping in lately, every second now felt like a fight against his own weakness. Today was no different.
• He pushed himself up with his arms, not waiting for anyone. The air felt crisp, quiet. His room, as usual, was still. The silence was his companion every morning, but today it didn't feel so heavy.