Amara never meant to stay out this late.
She was supposed to be in her room, pretending the world outside her window wasn't crawling with supernatural drama.
But she was bored.
She'd wandered out for some air and ended up on the edge of the training fields.
She heard whispers.
Not human, exactly. But not quite growls either.
She crawled towards a tree just in time to hear one of them speak.
She's still here?
Theo.
Of course it was Theo.
I thought Lucian would've come to his senses by now. This is unlike him.
Someone else responded. He's protective. That human girl—Amara? She'll leave. They always do."
Maybe,Theo said, voice like ice. Or maybe she needs help remembering she doesn't belong.
They weren't just talking about her. They were planning against her.
She took a step back and snapped a twig.
Who's there? Theo barked.
Amara ran.
Twigs whipped at her legs as she ran towards the manor. She didn't stop until the manor lights came into view.
She threw herself inside, heart pounding , chest heaving.
Lucian was by the stairs.
You've been gone too long, he said, frowning. Where have you been ?
She opened her mouth. Closed it. Swallowed hard.
Just walking, she said. Needed air.
He studied her. She was lying.
But he didn't question further.
Instead, he stepped closer, eyes narrowed
Be careful, Amara. You're not in the city anymore.