CHAPTER THIRTY-SIX
The moon hangs heavy and low in the sky, casting a silver glow over the clearing where the trial had taken place. I stand wrapped in a cocoon of my own apprehension, the cool night air biting at my skin. My fingers dig into my arms as if to anchor myself to this moment, away from the whispers and judgments that had circled me like vultures.
"Grace?" Lucas's voice is a warm balm against the chill, and when I lift my eyes to meet his, the world seems to pause on its axis. The Gamma's presence is reassuring, a sturdy oak in the midst of a storm, and for a fleeting second, I allow myself to lean into that strength.
"Lucas," I breathe out, mustering a small smile. "I—Thank you. For standing by me through all of this. For…for believing in me when no one else did."
His gaze
