Aria POV

The rain hit the windows like hands. Every crack of thunder made the walls shake. I clutched my stomach and slumped over, a sharp pain cutting through me like glass.

"I can't..." "It's too soon," I whispered, letting out short bursts of breath.

Cleanser and wet wood could be smelled in the small safe house. A few minutes ago, Julian left to meet a spy at the docks. He kissed me on the forehead and said he'd be back before midnight.

I was gripped by another pain. I ...