Chapter 212

Alexander's POV

Silence wrapped around us like a heavy blanket, amplifying the rhythmic sound of Olivia's breathing beside me. The day had been long and emotionally exhausting, but tomorrow held the start of Olivia's training, and we both needed rest. Yet, as much as I tried, sleep eluded me. My mind was a tangled mess of memories, worries, and unanswered questions.

With a resigned sigh, I carefully extricated myself from the bed, trying not to disturb Olivia. Her face was serene, bathed in the soft moonlight filtering through the thin curtains. For a moment, I stood there, simply observing her peaceful slumber, and a smile crept onto my face. In sleep, she looked so innocent, unburdened by the responsibilities that weighed on us both.

Silently, I crossed the room to where my travel bag lay. Digging through its contents, I pulled out a book I had brought with me from the city. The leather cover was worn, its pages yellowed with age—a relic, much like the secrets it contained. Settling