Chapter 70

Calyx

Naomi’s departure left a gaping hole in my chest that throbbed with longing. The walls felt like they were closing in, suffocating me as Ataz and Tobin went about their business, oblivious to the turmoil raging inside me. I couldn’t shake off the feeling of unease, like something was lurking around every corner waiting to pounce. Two days without her felt like an eternity, and I could feel myself spiralling into madness without her calming presence by my side.

“Drink it, Cal,” Tobin snaps, his voice dripping with frustration and impatience. The sight of the herbal tea in front of me makes my stomach churn, but I know I have to drink it. It’s like drinking boiling dirt, a taste that burns my tongue and threatens to make me gag. Tobin pours himself a cup without hesitation, but even he has to grimace at the putrid smell before forcing it down his throat, holding his nose as if that will somehow mask the taste. I follow suit, hoping that by chugging it quickly I can avoid tasting it