Chapter 45

Elena's POV

My chest ached again, but in the gentlest way—like something bruised was finally being touched with care.

I nodded slowly.

"Okay," I said. "One day."

He squeezed my hand.

"That's all I needed to hear."

And for a fleeting second, it didn't matter that the world outside was still spinning with chaos.

Right here, in this little pocket of stillness, I could almost believe I was safe.

The warmth from Julian's words lingered, but my mind was restless.

"It's probably best I don't stay out too late," I said softly. "I'll go see Callum in the morning instead. It's safer."

Julian nodded, his eyes understanding the unspoken fears between us.

Morning came with a fragile calm. The sun filtered through the curtains as I made my way to Callum's house, the quiet streets a small comfort after the chaos.

I took a deep breath and knocked on the door, hoping that maybe—just maybe—today would bring a moment of peace.