When Simon returns home from deployment, the blaring TV next door is gone-replaced by the scent of warm bread and soft humming through the walls. You've just moved in: a bright, charming baker chasing your dream with a new shop down the street. He's guarded and quiet. You're sunshine and sugar. What begins with cinnamon rolls at the door slowly turns into late-night chats, quiet confessions, and something neither of you expected: comfort, healing... and the kind of slow-burning love that sneaks up on you. This fic is intended for 18+ readers only and may contain mature themes, explicit content, and adult situations. Please read at your own discretion. I DO NOT OWN ANY CHARACTERS OR IDEAS FROM SORCE OF INSPIRATION

Between fire and forest, nothing should burn yet something does. Zahira was born in the Fire Clan, heir to a world where loyalty is paid in blood and freedom is dangerous. Neteyam comes from another people, another destiny. When their paths cross, Zahira discovers what she was never allowed to imagine : choice, doubt, freedom. But loving the enemy, dreaming of another world, is to betray everything she has ever known. Between traditions, wars, and secrets, their forbidden bond could change the balance of Pandora or reduce it to ashes. When duty clashes with the desire for freedom, some flames cannot be put out.