As I run through the woods, my heart pounds in my chest, each thud a frantic reminder of the chaos around me. The air is thick with the scent of the night, and with every breath, I can taste the tension building. Diego’s words echo in my mind. If I’m found, if they catch me, I could be claimed by a male, torn away from him, from what little safety and familiarity I have left. The thought makes my stomach twist with dread. I don’t know what life would be like with anyone else, but I know ...