Chapter 1157

Zoey stepped forward beside her. "We wanted you to choose. But she's growing stronger now. She won't wait much longer."

Layla added, "You feel her, don't you? In your dreams. In your skin."

Stella's breath shook. "We have to go. Now."

Jude turned to the forest, gripping Sophie's hand. "Run."

They did.

They ran.

Branches tore at their clothes. Roots clawed at their ankles. The forest didn't want them to leave. It moved. Trails that had been clear minutes ago were now twisted and veiled in creeping vines. The sky above had darkened, clouding fast, casting them into a dusk that didn't belong.

Behind them, no footsteps.

Only the soft, echoing hum of Rose's voice… calling his name.

Not shouting.

Not chasing.

Calling.

"Jude…"

They didn't stop until the trees thinned and the sound of the river met their ears.

They stumbled into the clearing near their shelters, breath ragged, hearts pounding.