Was he happy? Was he forgetting me already? The thought twisted like a knife in my gut. I wiped my tears away, forcing myself to breathe.
A noise outside broke through the silence.
I sat up, heart pounding. I wasn’t expecting anyone. The packhouse was empty except for a few guards. The sound of footsteps echoed through the corridors.
Then, a low growl.
Rogues.
I scrambled to my feet, my body trembling. The front door burst open, and figures poured in. Their eyes glowed red, their snarls cutting through the air. My blood ran cold.
They weren’t here by accident.
I turned and ran, my heart slamming against my ribs. My sickness made me weak, but fear gave me strength. I needed to get out. I needed to survive.
Heavy footsteps followed me as I dashed down the stairs. The rogues were bigger than me, stronger. If they caught me, I wouldn’t stand a chance.
A sharp pain shot through my chest as I reached the back door. My vision swayed, but I forced myself forward. Just a little more. Just a few more steps—