“You should get some rest, Reya.”

So consumed by grief, I hadn't even heard the door open. I turned my head slightly, acknowledging Alaric as he stood in the doorway, his broad frame cast in shadows.

I stood up from the chair, letting out a long, exhausted sigh. “I cannot leave her side, Alaric.”

He stepped into the room, his voice soft as he reached out and touched my shoulder. “Reya, you are in no condition to be doing this right now. You haven't slept in three days.”

“I am her ...