_Aria’s POV_
Ryan took my hand and did not let go.
His grip was firm and warm. It was grounding me as he led me through the forest. The trees closed around us like silent watchers. Branches scratched at my arms. Leaves crunched softly under our feet. The moonlight barely reached the ground and shadows stretched long and twisted between the trunks.
We walked fast but quietly.
No one spoke at first.
My heart was still racing from everything that had happened. From the tunnels. From the escape. From seeing Darius free. My thoughts felt tangled and heavy like I was carrying too many truths at once.
Ryan walked slightly ahead of me. He pulled me gently whenever I slowed down. His men moved around us. They were alert and silent. Darius followed close behind. I could feel his presence even
