Annakel
Annakel stands in the living room with her fingers resting on her throat like she can feel the mark thinking.
It aches. It hums. It calms her in a way that makes her feel both steadier and more owned.
Jonah waits with his phone in hand, ready to draft a statement in ten different tones.
Viktor watches the windows like he expects the city to climb the glass.
Nadia sits rigid on the sofa, eyes darting between Annakel and Alexander as if she’s trying to understand what protection costs.
Edmund stands near the hallway, shoulders squared in a way that’s new. Not strong exactly.
Determined.
Alexander stays by the window, still and silent, letting the choice be Annakel’s even though his entire body feels like a warning sign.
Annakel inhales.
Then she drops her hand from her thro
