First Eruption

[Fallon’s POV]

"Yeah."

The words leave my lips before I am able to fully process what is happening. The marks were gone, as was the connection between Mateo and Anika. Was this really happening, or were we counting our chickens before they hatched?

"Really?"

The hope in Fineon’s voice makes me want to believe that this is true, but I still can’t quite bring myself to believe it.

"I think so."

In my mind, I can feel Anika’s warring emotions. Gone was her helpless devotion to Mateo, and in its place was a cold determination. She was different; that was one thing that was certain, but just how different was still to be discovered.

‘Are you okay?’ I push, unable to hide my worry for her. ‘You don’t have to try to play strong with me.’

‘Better than okay,’ Anika responds simply. ‘I feel free for the first time in so many centuries.’

Despite her hopeful response, I still feel that coldness. It reminds me of the darkness I felt earlier on—was all of that coming from her? If so, did this mean