Ruby’s POV
The night air was crisp, and the moon was a silver guardian watching over us as we stepped out of the underground prison. My legs ached, and my body was weak from the energy I had poured into my escape.
But I was free.
Manson’s warmth pressed against my side as he supported me, his hand firm at my waist. I should have pulled away, should have reminded him that I didn’t need saving.
But for just this moment, I let him hold me.
I let myself be held.
The weight of everything, the pain, the rage, the fight for survival, sank into me all at once, like a storm that had finally passed.
Manson’s voice was low. “You’re shaking.”
I wasn’t sure if it was from exhaustion or something deeper.
“I just need a moment,” I whispered.
He nodded but didn’t loosen his hold. His touch was g
