Chapter 111

••• Damien’s POV ••• The ride home was silent. But silence wasn’t peaceful. It was still uncomfortable as usual. Victoria stared out the window. Her reflection in the glass looked just as distant as she felt—untouchable, cold, and gone. I gripped the steering wheel tighter, knuckles pale from the pressure. Every second she didn’t speak felt like a thread snapping between us. I used to be able to reach her with a single touch. Now, she sat beside me like a ghost—present, but unreachable. I should’ve told her sooner. I should’ve ripped off the bandage the moment I knew. Instead, I let fear decide for me. Fear of scaring her. Of losing her. Of messing everything up. I also kept thinking maybe it was wrong for me to take her to the banquet. I didn't know everyone knew about our deal now. Diana... I gritted my teeth. She was really something—a true betrayer. But then I learned something there. My mind went to Elijah's words - Lya would wake up soon. He felt it. He said it with certainty, li