Chapter 26: Same Meeting Point

Kara I didn’t walk into the apartment alone. Lucien was beside me, his arm firm around my waist, steadying me in a way I hated needing and secretly appreciated. My leg burned with every step, my body exhausted, my nerves stretched thin, but I kept my face calm. I refused to look broken in front of anyone. Especially Mira. The door hadn’t even fully shut before she was on her feet. “Kara?” Her voice cracked. “What—” Her eyes dropped to my torn coat, the blood soaked into the fabric, the way my weight leaned too heavily on Lucien. Her face drained of color. “Oh my Moon Goddess,” she whispered. “What happened to you?” “I’m okay,” I said immediately, firmer than I felt. “I promise.” Lucien didn’t release me until I was safely seated, and even then his hand hovered, reluctant. Mira noticed. She noticed everything. She rushed forward anyway, crouching in front of me, hands trembling as she inspected the damage. “This isn’t okay. You’re hurt. Badly.” “I’ve been worse,” I said lightly. “This j