CELINE’S POV
I knew I had to leave this place as soon as possible; it was not rocket science. I had goals, and with Lucian’s advice, I was more than ready this time.
So, I didn’t hesitate when I asked him.
“Lucian… can you help me find a way back to my realm?”
The words tasted strange on my tongue—not because I wanted to return to my old life, but because I needed to stand on my land again. To know I could leave this place on my own terms.
Lucian studied me for a long moment, then nodded. “I told you. You’re free to leave whenever you want. I’ll take you to the nearest crossing.”
Relief loosened something tight in my chest.
We walked side by side through the twilight-lit paths of the vampire realm. The air shimmered faintly, like reality itself was thinning. I could feel it—the pull
