Chapter 30: Home in the Ashes

The dawn painted the sky in hues of gold and rose, stretching light over the Hollow like a promise. The forest shimmered with morning dew, the trees standing tall and unburdened, yet Lucien still felt the weight of everything that had come before. He stood on the manor’s porch, watching the world wake up. The distant rustle of leaves, the chatter of birds, and the faint laughter of wolves carrying across the clearing were all signs of life returning to normal. But his chest ached, the heaviness of lingering shadows refusing to lift. Serena stepped outside, wrapping her arms around herself against the chill. Her hair was a mess of curls, and sleep lingered in her eyes, but she still looked at him like he was the only thing that mattered. “You didn’t sleep,” she murmured, brushing her fingers against his arm. Lucien rubbed his face, letting out a rough breath. “I tried.” Serena stepped closer, sliding her hand down to lace her fingers through his. “The past keeps knocking, doesn’t