Evelyn paced the edge of the Lake Hope dock, wind tugging at her robe as she stared into the moonlit water. The night air felt electric—charged with fear and resolve. Beside her, Julian hovered, coat draped over his arm, eyes haunted by memories of past sacrifices.
“Evelyn, please," he pleaded, voice tight. “You don't have to do this."
She stopped mid-step, turned to face him. “I do. You've given me everything—freedom, trust, love. Now it's my turn to give back."
He ran a hand through his hair, anguish in his storm-gray eyes. “But I can't bear the thought of losing you."
She reached for his hand, pressing it to her belly. “Oliver needs you, but he needs both of us."
He shook his head. “I could live—maybe not long—but I could bear my own fate. I can't ask you to die for me."
Evelyn's
