~Hermes~

My steps falter for half a second as the memory flickers through my head —

~Please don’t leave me.

The words echo so clearly it feels like they were never just a dream.

My pulse spikes.

Did I say that out loud last night?

Shit.

I force my features still, dragging my gaze to Natalya, who’s flashing her bright, rehearsed smile at them.

Natalya laughs at something Tobias says, smooth and effortless. There is no sign of suspicion. No simmering anger. No quiet, poised vengeance ...