Chapter 297

Olivia's pov

I stood on the balcony, watching the grey clouds climb higher—the leftover ashes of the dark burning up. The sharp smell filled the air, making it hard to breathe, yet it was a burden we had to carry. As much as I wanted to rest, a nagging feeling kept me awake. The rogues haunted us, their threats hiding in every shadow, reminding us of the danger we faced.

The night quickly draped around us, its shadows reaching out like curious hands, but I couldn’t bring myself to leave the sight of the smoke rising into the evening sky. Frustration threatened to overflow; I was exhausted beyond words, yet adrenaline kept me tied to what lay below. Each heartbeat carried the hope that this would be the end of it.

A soft sound broke the silence, and I turned to see Alexander standing there, concern softly marking his face. His presence was warmth against the cold pressing in, and I fought the urge to collapse into his arms.

"You should be asleep, Olivia," he said, his voice gentle.

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