Olivia’s POV
The night passed with a tension that clung to me like mist. Even in sleep, my body remained restless, attuned to the silent battle Lucas waged beside me. His breathing was steady but not peaceful—too measured, as if each inhale was chosen, each exhale guarded.
When dawn finally crept through the curtains, I blinked awake to find him already out of bed. The faint sound of running water told me he was in the shower, but even that ordinary noise couldn’t mask the dread pressing against my chest.
Midnight, the message had said. Which meant the clock had already struck, and whatever “story” threatened us was no longer just a possibility. It was out there, weaving its way into the world.
I rose slowly, padding across the room. The velvet box from the jewelry store still sat unto
