Chapter 73

~ Elara’s POV

I gripped the edge of the car seat, my knuckles white. As the cab weaved through the city streets, a knot of anxiety tightened in my stomach. Every neon sign, every flicker of movement in the throngs of people, felt like a potential glimpse of Rayel. To me, the city which was once a place of vibrant energy, felt like a kaleidoscope of fear.

Rufus, probably sensing me distress, reached for my hand, his touch warm and reassuring.

"Elara," he said gently, his voice a steady midst of my worry. "You're safe with me. Rayel wouldn't dare show his face here, not even his guards,”

His words were like a soothing balm. I squeezed his hand back, a flicker of hope rekindling in my chest. Slowly, I allowed my gaze to drift out the window. And then the city began to reveal its magic again.

Towering buildings, bathed in the soft glow of the sun, scraped the sky. Streets teemed with life, a balance of honking cabs, chattering pedestrians, and the rhythmic beat of music spilling from ope