Chapter 29

Scarlett's POV The air was still thick with morning dew when I slipped away from the mansion just as the sun set. The world was quiet, filled only with the chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves as I ran away, and for once, I loved it. I felt free. I could finally breathe properly. The lump in my throat had disappeared. The cool breeze hit my face, making me even more motivated to run. Green leaves and grass were everywhere. Droplets of water from the rain clung to the leaves. I had been shackled by my thoughts. I had been a prisoner of my own emotions—an overthinker leading myself in circles about my future. I wanted to breathe. I wanted to be alone. Not with the constant guessing about what was on Lucien's mind. Not with always dealing with Alexander. Not with Kathleen, who kept feeding my delusions. My body longed for space. My soul needed silence. So, I ran. I shed my shoes and let my bare feet pound the forest floor, weaving through the towering trees of Nightshade territory.