#Chapter 140 – Numb

Lila I only wanted air. Feeling trapped in my rooms under constant guard was wearing on me. I may not have had a strong wolf, but the need to roam was still essential. The corridors near the eastern stairwell were quiet, mostly unused this time of day. The sun slanted through narrow windows, gilding the dust in lazy shafts of gold. I moved slowly, being conscious not to fatigue myself or fall again. Wrapped in a thin wool cloak that didn’t quite warm me, I drew the hood up to hide my face more from habit than need. No one noticed me here. Except my two guard shadows trying to keep a discreet distance. The palace felt like it was holding its breath lately, at least when I was able to take these brief walks; hushed footsteps, whispered voices, eyes that didn’t quite meet mine. Something was happening, and I was in the dark as to what it was. My feet carried me toward the lower garden stairs, a shortcut I wasn’t technically permitted to use but I didn’t care. I needed s