Chapter 42

Lucas’s POV

Elara’s eyelids flutter open, for a moment, she seems confused. Her gaze drifts around the room until it finally lands on me. Her eyes grow wide, she’s afraid.

“Elara,” I whisper, keeping my voice low. “I’m right here.”

She tightens her fingers around mine—a weak grip, but enough to tell me she knows I’m with her. I can’t tell if she’s trying to speak or if she’s just holding on, anchoring herself to something familiar. I let her be, watching the way her breathing steadies, the way her gaze clings to mine as if she’s afraid I’ll disappear.

“Lucas…” she breathes, so quietly I have to strain to hear her. I lean in closer, her name barely leaving my lips.

“I’m not going anywhere, Elara. I promise.”