Victoria’s POV
Makarius had changed since Raya disappeared. Our adopted daughter vanished three weeks ago, leaving a hole in our family. We were both haunted by her absence, but it hit Makarius even harder. I think he worried our son would end up searching for me, just like he once did.
It weighed on him, and the space between us started to feel like a real distance.
I undressed and shifted, running into the cold air. Autumn was my favorite season. The leaves were falling, and the air smelled different.
Maybe I didn’t want to admit how much it hurt to see him drifting away. I ran back and saw him holding my clothes.
I shifted back. "Makarius, I thought you’d be gone for a few more days," I said as I walked toward him.
He pulled me close, and I sighed.
"Forgive me. I know you feel sa
