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“No, I-I’m seeing things. I’m… hallucinating… Yes, h-hallucinating. I’m hallucinating. Or I’m dreaming or running mad.” Layla stuttered as she stumbled back and pressed against the door.

Alaric was standing in front of her with a bright, gentle smile on his face. No, it had to be a dream.

“You’re not hallucinating, Layla.” Alaric said as he approached her. “It’s not a dream. You’re not running mad. I’m truly here.”

“How? Y-you’re with the parliamentarians. They trust you. You’re literally there eyes and ears. H-how… How are you here?” She asked, gaping at him as he stopped just a few inches away from her. His icy, coppery scent filled her nose, dulling the pain in her heart.

“It’s quite obvious, Layla. I’m a spy. I work and was always working with the rebels.” He whispered, placing his hand on her cheek and stroked it. “I’ve missed you. I’ve missed you so much.”

She jumped on him, throwing her arms around his neck, and pulled him into a tight hug.

“I’ve missed you too. I missed you so