Rachel’s POV I felt it before I understood what it was exactly. The unease didn’t come from the council chamber, or the hushed conversations that followed me through the halls afterward. The feeling settled deeper and low in my chest, coiled tight, as though my instincts were bracing for something my mind hadn’t yet named. This wasn’t fear, no. Fear was loud. This feeling was quieter and sharper. The kind that whispered for you to pay attention. Damon walked in a steady stride beside me as we returned to our quarters. The bond between us hummed faintly, not strained, but alert. We were both listening to the same undercurrent, even if we weren’t speaking it aloud. “You didn’t have to speak,” he said eventually, breaking the silence. I glanced at him. “Yes, I did.” “They were already listening to me.” “That wasn’t the problem,” I replied. “They needed to hear it from me.” He slowed slightly, studying my face. “And are you alright with the way they looked at you?” I d
Read more