Chapter 21

"Ravishing, aren't they?" Viktor said, presenting us.

Elea's nervousness was palpable. I offered a reassuring touch, reminding her of my promise.

"I keep my word, no matter the cost," I vowed silently. Abandonment was a wound I knew all too well, etched into my soul by those I once trusted blindly. The ache of being left behind still lingered, fueling my unyielding resolve.

"I will never inflict that same agony on another," I promised myself.

No matter the circumstances, no matter the price, I would stand by those who relied on me. My word was my bond, my shield against the darkness of betrayal.