Agatha didn’t move. Her grip tightened around the shawl draped over her shoulders.
“I know,” she said softly. “But don’t forget—it was your delay that caused this whole mess, Leander.”
The ghost growled, a low and haunting sound. The air grew colder around him, and the light flickered.
Agatha didn’t back away. She winced slightly and pressed a hand to her side, then took a careful step forward.
“I’m trying to protect him.”
His eyes flared. “Just like you protected his mother?”
That hit harder than any blade.
Agatha stiffened. Her shoulders tensed, and she blinked away the tears that gathered in her eyes.
“I’m well aware of my mistakes, Leander,” she whispered. “I’ve carried them longer than you care to know. I don't need you or anyone reminding me of what I've done. I made one mist
