Phantom’s POV The palace had become a cage, every corridor echoing with Lucian’s defiance. His shadow clung to the walls, poisoning the air, and I couldn’t stand it another second. Maryelle’s gaze had lingered on him, her breath faltered, and I knew if I didn’t act, I’d lose her piece by piece. So I made the decision without hesitation: we were leaving. By dawn, Maryelle was beside me in the carriage, the horizon stretching wide and endless. She didn’t ask where we were going. She didn’t need to. I wanted her away from all of it — away from him, away from the whispers, away from the weight of destiny. Just us. The road wound through forests and cliffs, the air sharp with salt and pine. I watched her as the carriage jolted over stones, her hair catching the light, her eyes distant. She looked fragile, torn, and I hated it. I reached for her hand, threading my fingers through hers, refusing to let her drift too far. “We need this,” I said, my voice low, steady. “You and me. Aw
Read more