Chapter 77

Megra

The loud bang echoes in my mind, repeating itself over and over like a nightmare I can’t escape. The sound still rattles me to my core, the shock of it reverberating through my entire body. I relive that terror every time I close my eyes, every time I try to steady my breath. I remember how Nathaniel pulled me into his arms, shielding me with his body, protecting me from whatever danger lurked just beyond the door. He was so strong, so determined to keep us safe, even though I knew deep down he was just as scared as I was.

Mia had cried, her little face scrunched in fear, asking what was going on, her tiny hands clutching at my dress, her tears soaking into my skin. She didn’t understand, and I couldn’t explain. How could I? When I didn’t even know myself who was behind this madness. All I knew was that it needed to end. I couldn’t keep living in fear; I couldn’t keep watching the man I loved sacrifice his peace for me. Nathaniel had given up so much—his time, his energy, his foc