Chapter 70

Camilla's pov Tonight's air feels different. Perhaps lighter. However, there is still this perilous edge that seems to be waiting to break. I'm looking out over the city while leaning on the balcony. I see the lights as warning signs, but they blink like little fires. Indeed, a fresh day has begun. However, the past clings to me like a second shadow. Will this tranquility last? Or is this merely a stopgap before everything falls apart once more? Alejandro says, "We've come a long way," in a quiet voice that is almost whispery next to me. I remain still. "How long, though?" He takes a while to respond. He merely nods when he does. No grin. He shows no sign of relief. I say, more to myself than to him, "We have to try." His breath warms my neck as he moves closer. "We must not surrender." I am aware of the burden we bear. The struggles, the setbacks, and the persistent fear that everything could end tomorrow are all present. The energy in the room is palpable. The younger leaders are pre