Rhys After my conversation with Dawn, I’d never felt more terrified in my life. When I made my declaration to the council, I didn’t think about what she wanted. I thought we wanted the same thing. Now, the thought that she might leave me was like a cold blade twisting in my chest. The fear was all-consuming, and the worst part? I knew I was ready to do whatever she asked. I wanted her to be happy, even if that meant letting her go. But damn, I was scared. This kind of fear was new to me, unsettling in a way that I couldn’t shake off. I tried retreating to my den, but it was no use. I paced back and forth, my mind was ablaze. I couldn’t stop replaying our conversation, the sadness in her eyes, the uncertainty in her voice. Every time I thought about it, a fresh wave of panic surged t

