#Chapter 134 – Much Needed Space

Lila The sun hadn’t risen fully yet, but I was already dressed. Wrapped in a soft shawl, standing at the edge of the window, I watched the world blur into golden light. I could see the garden path from here—the one where Damon first asked me to trust him. It felt like a lifetime ago. My fingers tightened around the sill. I didn’t want to leave. Not really. But staying here, pretending nothing was broken, pretending I wasn’t unraveling—was worse. The door creaked open behind me. “I thought I’d find you here,” Damon said, voice low, hesitant. I turned, slowly. “I need to go.” He stilled. “Go where?” “Just… out. Away from all of this. Just for a day.” I met his eyes. “Please.” He frowned, and I could see the resistance building behind his expression. His body was tense, jaw locked like he was biting back words. “Lila—” “I’m not running,” I said, stepping forward. “But I’m not okay. And I can’t keep pretending I am just to make everyone else more comfortable.” His mo