David’s eyes flicked to Fred, and for the first time, a trace of fear rippled across his features. He quickly masked it with defiance, but the shift was undeniable. I saw it.
Fred took a step closer, his presence dark and commanding. “You underestimate us, David. You underestimate me.”
The air around us seemed to hum with tension, as if the very forest was holding its breath, waiting for what would happen next. Noelle moved beside me, her fingers brushing her side instinctively. Samuel, too, was on edge, his stance ready for a fight.
But I wasn’t ready to give up on David, not yet.
“David,” I began, my voice soft but firm, “there’s still time to make this right. If you really believe Alaric is trying to help, then prove it. Help us find a solution that doesn’t involve bloodshed, that d
