Julian POV
"Did she hit you again?"
Hazel steps into the hallway of the Westview base, her heels clicking against the cheap laminate flooring.
I do not look at her.
My knuckles are still white from gripping the steering wheel of the saloon car all the way from the Governor’s estate.
"Julian, look at me."
Her fingers reach up, aiming for the frown lines between my eyes.
I jerk my head back. "Do not touch me."
"Julian..."
Her lower lip trembles on cue.
The water wells up in her eyes right on schedule, perfectly timed, glittering under the harsh fluorescent bulbs of the temporary pack house.
Six months ago, this exact look made me want to burn the world down to keep her safe.
Tonight, it just makes my stomach turn.
"She is a rose with thorns, Julian," Hazel whispers, her voice dr
