Chapter 9: Calculated Risk (Elara's POV)
My heart pounded frantically against my ribs as I stood in the elegant lobby of the Asriel Hotel. The marble floors gleamed under crystal chandeliers, making me feel even more out of place in my simple clothes.
"Are you sure about this?" Ethan whispered beside me, adjusting the collar of his ill-fitting suit.
I nodded, too nervous to speak. This plan had to work.
Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes and reached for that tenuous mental connection to Caleb. We'd once shared a strong bond, before everything shattered between us. Now there was only a fragile thread, easily broken by his resistance.
I pushed through anyway, the urgency of my message overriding my usual hesitation.
Caleb. I need you. It's important.
Nothing. Not even an ac
