Chapter 132

Chad's POV

I scrubbed my hands under the harsh stream of water, watching the crimson droplets swirl down the drain, remnants of a tense interrogation fading into nothingness. The North Natbians were attempting to breach our borders, and one of their spies had finally divulged unsettling information. They were on a mission to capture Bella and deliver her to their king, and every one of them carried her picture, a haunting reminder of the stakes at play. Frustration boiled within me, and I slammed my fist against the wall, the sound echoing like thunder in the sterile room. The realization that he could hold Bella hostage, forcing my hand and sealing Kaladia's fate, ignited a fire of desperation in my chest.

“Chad, I know you’re trying to protect Bella, but she needs to understand the peril she’s in,” Dane insisted, his expression taut with concern.

"I will talk to her," I snapped, my voice rough with guilt. I hated the thought of burdening her with fear. I felt like I was failing