Thalia’s heart raced as Zev guided her through the dimly lit corridor. His hand lingered at the small of her back, a constant reminder of his presence, both comforting and unnerving at the same time. The sound of the rain outside grew louder, almost in rhythm with her own heartbeat. She could feel the tension in the air thickening, the uncertainty of what was to come gnawing at her.
Zev’s silence unnerved her more than any words he could have said. Usually, he was sharp-tongued, quick to tease or provoke her, but now, his quiet confidence made her feel like she was walking into something she wasn’t ready for.
They stopped in front of a door she didn’t recognize. Zev opened it without hesitation, leading her into a small room. It wasn’t the lavish space she expected—it was simple, almost
