Chapter 148

held a dangerous note of hope, and 1 exhaled sharply.

ad a drink,” I told her firmly, trying to ignore the dull ache in my chest. “Maybe that will settle this… way. Going back to them would be a death sentence, and you know it.” The thought alone made my stoma hance to finally rid themselves of me for good.

d, but I could still feel her restlessness echoing through me. Anger bubbled up, frustration clawing me. i wished feelings, to simply disconnect from everything I’d once felt for those three. But no such relief existed; the pain and ach as Keith tried to soothe the wounds, they lingered, etched into me.

could take my anger out on him when the past became too heavy. It was a small comfort, but I’d take it.

wn the hall to the general kitchen, hoping the simplicity of water and a snack would ease my nerves. But as I moved through

hit me, one that sent my senses spiraling. Cinnamon and pinewood-scents I hadn’t smelled in ages. My heart pounded. hast as I other scent, sandalwood, drifted past me, flooding my mind with memories I’d rather forget.

threw open the fridge, and gulped down cold water, letting it soothe my throat and steady my thoughts. I gripped the bottle, bracing dge door, trying to calm the storm inside me. I sensed Keith’s presence nearby; his magic enveloped me like a protective shield. though he hadn’t come to me yet. What was he up to? Why hadn’t he checked in?