Chapter 70:

The moonlight bathes me in its silver glow, the cold grass beneath me a welcome relief after a day spent battling the fire in my bones.

The pain had been unbearable earlier, twisting through me like something clawing to get out.

But now, under the moon, it's gone. Just like last time.

I sigh, closing my eyes, letting my body sink into the earth. There's something else now, though—not just relief.

A presence.

I can't explain it, can't hear it at the moment, but I feel it. Like something waiting just beneath my skin, watching me.

Footsteps crunch against the grass, and a familiar scent wraps around me before I even open my eyes.

"I've been looking everywhere for you."

My heart stumbles in my chest.

I push myself up, and before I can say a word, strong arms wrap around me, pulling me into the warmest, most comforting embrace I've ever known.