30. Galen

"It will be dangerous if you're with me" Galen said, after a bit of privacy, after my friends had left.

Despite Galen's warnings about the danger his closeness could trigger, I couldn't help but defy the uncertainty surrounding his true nature. His words, laden with warning, echoed in the air, but the determination in my eyes did not waver.

"Do you think I'm afraid of the idea of facing the unknown, Galen?" I replied with a defiant look. "I have chosen to stand by your side, no matter what that means. If there is danger, we will face it together."

Galen, with a mixed expression of gratitude and concern, searched my eyes for some sign of doubt. However, he found only unwavering conviction. I took his hand, conveying with that gesture that my choice was firm and that we were in this together, no matter what shadows might lurk in our path.