(Aurora’s POV)
I guessed Hazel wasn’t technically wrong. Marcus’s thoughtfulness was... refreshing.
Unlike Alex, who often waved off my concerns or ignored my messages entirely, Marcus didn’t let anything slip by unnoticed—even the small things. And maybe that difference was more striking than I cared to admit.
My phone buzzed again, stealing my attention. This time, it was another message from Marcus.
“Glad you’re not alone. Please message me when you’re home safe.”
I stared at the screen for a moment, just letting the words settle. The steady ache in my chest—the same one the breaking bond with Alex had left behind—seemed to quiet just a little.
It wasn’t much. But it was something.
“What’s he saying now?” Hazel asked, her curiosity evident in her voice.
“Just... he asked
