Auren POV

“Coming from you, I can’t even picture what that looks like. Every time I think we're okay, you shut me out and run straight back to Lysandra.”

The sadness in Lorien’s voice carved into me as she turned her face away. “Maybe it’s for the best that this is almost over. I never should’ve let myself get swept up in all of this. I don’t want you choosing me out of pity… or obligation.”

My stomach knotted so hard it felt like the ground slipped under me. Almost ...