A blast of heated air carried the sharp scent of industrial work, making them all grimace. Sophia watched Juniper’s eyes track to Daniel, catching that particular tightening around her mouth that meant she was holding back questions. A small smile tugged at Sophia’s lips as she decided to ask what her friend couldn’t.

“Oh really?” she teased, playfully mimicking Juniper’s inquisitive head tilt. “And where exactly were you last night that had you taking the tunnel this morning?”

Her attempt at humor evaporated into the stale air. Daniel just stared at his device, his jaw working silently, while Juniper turned toward the windows, her spine stiffening into that perfect posture she only adopted when trying to hold herself together. Sophia’s smile faded as she watched their reflections in the glass - three people who suddenly felt miles apart despite sharing the same oxygen.