The silence after the enemy’s retreat was deafening. Dust hung in the air like a tangible presence, catching the dim light of the shattered windows. Ariana’s hands trembled, still pressed against Adrian’s chest, still clinging as if letting go would mean falling into oblivion.
Adrian’s eyes scanned the ruined hallways, every shadow, every corner, taut with the awareness that danger could strike at any second. His jaw was tight, muscles rigid, his body vibrating with controlled tension. He hadn’t moved from her side since the enemy had backed off.
“Adrian…” Ariana whispered, voice low, raw. “I… I can’t believe we survived.”
He didn’t answer immediately. His eyes remained sharp, calculating, flicking to every broken corner, every darkened shadow. When he finally spoke, it was slow, delibe
