Cain I wrapped my arms around Mika, pulling her close as she trembled in my embrace. I whispered gentle reassurances, hoping to soothe the fear that flickered in her eyes. It pained me to think that my earlier outburst had frightened her, especially when she had no reason to bear any guilt for my reaction. The encounter with the old man at the farm had stirred something profound within me, and I feared my emotions had spilled over onto her. I had attempted to mask my shock and disbelief at the unsettling details he revealed, but it was clear that the tension had seeped into our moment together. I wanted Mika to know that she was safe with me and that her feelings mattered far more than the confusion surrounding our encounter. “Mika, I want you to know that I’m not upset with you or bla

