Chapter 77

Claire's POV The drive to Theo's penthouse passed in a blur of city lights and gentle pressure—his hand warm and steady on my knee, an anchor keeping me tethered to the present moment instead of spiraling into the chaos of everything that had just happened. He didn't speak, didn't ask questions, didn't demand explanations. He simply drove with quiet purpose while his thumb traced small, soothing circles against my leg. I found myself focusing on that simple touch, using it to ground myself. The familiar scent of his car—gradually replaced the memory of Adrian's alcohol-tainted breath. The steady hum of the engine drowned out the echo of Luna Roanna's threats. Slowly, incrementally, my racing heart began to settle. When we reached his building, Theo guided me through the lobby and into the private elevator with the same protective care, his hand at the small of my back, his body positioned slightly between me and the world. Even the doorman's polite greeting was intercepted with a curt