chapter 25 : snare

Chapter 25: Snare

Lyraeus’ POV:

Sleep eluded me, the weight of my emotions a heavy burden that pressed down on my chest. The argument with Aria replayed in my mind, her hurt expression haunting me. Zephyr was restless, his restless presence in my mind a constant reminder of what I had pushed away.

“Why did you have to push her so hard?” Zephyr’s voice echoed, his anger palpable.

“I did it for her,” I muttered, staring at the ceiling. “To keep her safe.”

“Safe? Or to protect yourself?” Zephyr countered, his tone biting. “What if she finds peace with Ryker? What if you don’t die in three months? What then?”

I clenched my fists, trying to block out the questions. They gnawed at me, a festering wound that refused to heal. The thought of Aria finding solace in Ryker’s arms was unbearable, but I had to face the possibility. My time was limited, and I couldn’t afford to let my feelings cloud my judgement.

The hours stretched on, and I finally gave up on sleep, rising from the bed with a