CHAPTER TWENTY TWO

I can't stop crying as I leave Nicholas's house. I know I had to do it. I had to break things off. I couldn't risk him dying because of me.

But still, my heart is broken, and I'm not sure anything will ever be able to put it back together again.

I keep thinking about that night on the moon. I keep thinking about the way his eyes looked into mine. I keep thinking about the way he held me and kept me safe. I keep thinking about the way he made me feel.

I try to remind myself that I'm doing the right thing. I've been trying to analyze this from all angles, and this is what I've decided is the safest decision for everyone.

But it doesn't make it any easier.

I decide to take a walk through the woods, the narrow path illuminated by the bright moon overhead. I pass by some of the cabins, and I see a few people sitting out on the porches, probably enjoying the night air and the comforting warmth of a roaring fire.

I feel so alone. I should feel myself surrounded by my pack, but I don't f