{Ryanna’s POV}

I woke up with tears in my eyes.

It wasn't from panic or pain.

Grief maybe? Yes… But lighter somehow. The type you welcomed because you knew it wouldn't be your end.

My hands were curled beneath me on the floor, the dagger long gone, forgotten. I pushed myself up slowly. No shaking this time. No thoughts of falling back down.

I stood.

And it didn’t feel impossible to hold my weight.

I crossed the room, barefoot, and knelt beside Casper’s still form. He hadn’t ...