---- VALERIA I walked out apanied by Aldric, his hand on my waist, pulling me protectively against his side.


    Outside, voices could be heard.


    I didn''t know whose they were; they seemed to being from the courtyard.


    Ilooked up at the tall ceiling beam.


    Even though this was the best house in town, it still felt dark and oppressive.


    The green striped wallpaper on the walls gave off a dizzying and ustrophobic effect.


    Turning a corner, we arrived at another hallway with bedroom doors on one side.


    Quinn was standing in front of one of them.


    "Quinn, why arent you resting? Are you okay? How''s Celine?" I quickly stepped forward.


    I know Aldric doesnt like my closeness with this Lycan, but we''ve been through too many life-or-death situations together.


    To me, Quinn and Celine are likerades-in-arms, my friends, and I feel nothing else for him.


    "I''m better, and Celine is resting.


    I''m really d nothing happened to you; thats what matters most," he says with a nod.


    He looks exhausted and haggard, with dark circles under his eyes.


    He doesnt seem to have rested at all, and his expression is filled with worry.


    Is he lying to me about Celines condition? "Love, your mother is resting in this room.


    I think she want to see you ---- alone," Aldric speaks from behind me before I can question Quinn.


    Iturn around when he strokes my back.


    "Baby, take it easy, okay?" he says softly, caressing my neck.


    "The pup is fine, but the sorceress told me shes a bit stressed.


    You cant keep putting yourself at risk.


    Even though shes a strong baby, we need to take care of her, understand?" Inod, promising that I will.


    Im getting too nervous with all these precautions.


    What am I going to find in there? My somewhat rigid hand reaches for the doorknob, and I slowly open the door.


    "Shes been longing to see you.


    You are her reason to live now, Valeria," Quinn''s whisper reaches me before I step inside.


    I nce at him, a bit puzzled.


    Why does he look so anxious, as if Gabrielle is too important to him? Without overthinking it, I finally step into the dimly lit room and close the door behind me.


    The strong scent of medicinal herbs assaults my nose, making me wrinkle it slightly.


    The heavy curtains are closed, and the little light that enters seeps through a few slits in the window.


    Step by step, I walk toward an old canopy bed, also draped with those white curtains, closed.


    Through the darkness, I can barely make out the silhouette of someone lying on plush pillows.


    As I get closer and my eyes adjust to the dim light, my breath catches in