chapter fifty

Nathaniel POV

The alarm's piercing sound jolted me awake, a welcome respite from the haunting nightmares that plagued me since Katherine left. After a refreshing shower, I trudged downstairs for breakfast, my heart heavy with dread.

Days of avoidance hadn't eased the tension; I couldn't escape the inevitable.

With a resigned sigh, I took a seat beside Kilo. "Good morning," I muttered to my uncle and aunt.

Carolina's snarl greeted me, her annoyance palpable. "Look who finally decided to join us."

I refused to give her the satisfaction of a reaction, rolling my eyes instead. I ate slowly, lost in thought.

Tristian's concerned voice broke the silence. "How are you feeling, son? You look pale."

His genuine concern touched me. I forced a small smile. "I'm okay."

But the truth lingered, unspoken. I was far from okay.

Breakfast was a strained affair, with Uncle Tristian and Kilo tiptoeing around me, avoiding sensitive topics. But Carolina showed no such restraint.

"So, Nathaniel, now that y