Aiden’s POV

I ran without thinking, my boots striking the hospital floor frantically. For one moment, I was certain that it was Rue. But when I reached the end of the corridor and the figure turned, the illusion shattered instantly.

Only a stranger’s eyes met mine, startled and confused. The hope that had surged through me collapsed, leaving behind this life I was trapped in. I stood there longer than necessary, breathing through the disappointment.

Percy’s POV

There were mixed reactions ...