Elliott Esteria held my hand all the way to the medical facility. She only let go when she needed both hands to fasten her coat, and even then, I did it for her. “I can manage a button,” she said. “You missed one.” She looked down at the uneven front of her coat. A small smile appeared, then disappeared almost as quickly. I wanted it back. She slept poorly. Each time I woke during the night, I found her awake beside me, staring into the darkness. Once, she asked if I regretted what I said. I answered her, then held her until she finally slept. This morning, she hadn’t asked again. That didn’t mean she had stopped worrying. Two guards waited outside the private entrance. Beyond the garden wall, a patrol wolf lifted his head as we passed before returning to his route. Inside, Tamara was ready for us. Her silver-streaked hair was secured in its usual low bun, and she carried a folder beneath one arm. She greeted Esteria first. “How was your breakfast?” “I kept it down.” “Goo
Last Updated : 2026-10-23 Read more