The courtyard was already busy. Camera crews moved with practiced efficiency, cables snaking over ancient stone. You could see the others from your seat in the black car—Dan and Phil standing a little apart, speaking quietly to each other; the Kalogeras sisters adjusting their hair while a producer gave them last-minute notes.

And there was Colby.

He stood near the castle's entrance, phone in his hand, laughing at something Sam had just said. The same laugh you'd known your whole life. Dark hair a little longer now. Black hoodie, silver chain catching the weak light. The easy confidence of someone who'd spent years learning how to be watched.

He hadn't seen the car yet. He didn't know. Sam glanced toward the vehicle once—briefly, pointedly—and then looked away, his expression caught somewhere between excitement and guilt.

The driver cut the engine.

Outside, the wind picked up, and for just a moment, you could have sworn you heard something beneath it. A murmur. Low. Waiting. The castle walls seemed to exhale.

The door opened.