Xeros Romanov Her words caused my chest to constrict, a blend of pride and fear running through me. She was delicate yet resilient, bravely confronting her fears despite the daunting and unsettling nature of it all. "You don't have to pretend to be brave, Cassie," I murmured, gently stroking her cheek. She trembled all over while facing me, separated by the bars. "I have enough strength for the both of us." She hesitated before looking up to meet my gaze, then quickly looked away. "I... I must go," she stammered. I could sense the internal battle she was fighting as her body shook while she spoke. Even though she was afraid, there was a sense of determination in her demeanor that showed how committed she was to fulfilling this task, regardless of her fear. "Cassie," I whispered, moving

