CHAPTER 36

**Chapter 39**

Alex kept his arm firmly around Sofia's waist as they made their way through the maze of corridors, his grip steady despite the turmoil swirling inside him. Sofia's breathing had become shallow, each step a clear strain as the effects of the capsule took full hold. She was trembling slightly, her body fighting against the drug that was sapping her strength.

Sofia hated this. Every inch of her body ached with the betrayal of her own muscles, the burning sensation spreading like wildfire through her veins. She tried to focus on walking, to maintain some semblance of control, but each step felt heavier than the last. Her vision blurred, and she stumbled, her weight shifting precariously into Alex's arms.

"Easy," Alex murmured, tightening his grip to steady her. His voice was soft, but there was a tension there—worry he couldn’t hide.

"Don't... don't treat me like I'm helpless," Sofia muttered, her voice weaker than she intended. She didn’t want him, or anyone for that matt