Elin’s POV

Consciousness washed over me like a tide, hazy at first, carrying the familiar scent of pine。My eyes fluttered open, and the first thing I saw was Aaron’s face—pale as paper, ice-blue eyes red-rimmed and bloodshot, like a guardian who hadn’t slept a wink. His arms banded around my waist, holding me close against his broad chest, which rose and fell unevenly. Arthur’s low growl seeped through his shirt into my skin. Istha quivered inside me, responding to that warmth ...