Aurelia POV
We left before dawn the following morning, the cabin's familiar walls disappearing behind us as Rowan guided our journey toward whatever uncertain sanctuary the mountain settlement might eventually provide.
I paused at the edge of the clearing, looking back one final time at the modest structure that had sheltered me throughout months of healing and unexpected peace. Despite everything, despite the fear and uncertainty that had ultimately forced this departure, that small cabin had offered something precious I hadn't experienced since childhood.
Genuine safety, however temporary it had proven.
"Are you ready?" Rowan asked gently, noting my lingering hesitation.
"As ready as I'll likely become," I said, forcing myself to turn away from the cabin and focus entirely on the ch
