Elena’s POV
I felt the surge of panic deep in my bones as I ran, each breath ragged and shallow. My body ached in ways I couldn’t even describe, but the adrenaline rushing through me wouldn’t allow me to stop. I limped forward, pushing through the branches and overgrown shrubs as fast as I could. Oliver was chasing me—I could feel him getting closer, the bond between us pulsing like a magnet pulling us together. I was already weakened by the silver cuffs and the pain in my broken bones. I didn’t stand a chance if he caught me, not with his strength and speed.
But I had to try. I had to get away.
The sun had fully dipped below the horizon now, leaving only the faint glow of the rising moon to guide my way. The thick forest was filled with unfamiliar sounds—the rustling of leaves, the cal
