Elena’s POV
The silence after Daniel’s departure was deafening. I paced the room, each step echoing against the wooden floor as Beauty’s wide, tear-filled eyes followed my movements. My bond with Oliver throbbed faintly—still there, but the pain I’d felt moments ago had left an ominous shadow. I clenched my hands into fists, forcing myself to remain calm.
“Elena, please sit,” Beauty begged, her voice trembling. “You’re making me more nervous.”
I paused, taking a deep breath to steady my racing thoughts. Sitting wasn’t an option. The growing unease in my chest demanded action, but I was trapped, bound by Oliver’s order to stay here.
“You don’t understand, Beauty,” I murmured, my gaze fixed on the window. The forest stood still, deceptively peaceful. “When you’re bonded, you feel everyth
