But she didn’t ask. Instead, she sat back down and resumed eating, completely oblivious to the chaos she was causing. I couldn’t take it anymore. I stood abruptly, the legs of my chair scraping against the floor. “I’m gonna go... uh, check the perimeter,” I muttered, heading for the door. “Alek,” Amber called after me, her voice tinged with concern. “Are you sure you’re okay?” I paused, my hand on the doorknob. Turning back to her, I forced a smile. “I’m fine, Amber. Just need some air.” Her blue eyes searched mine, and for a moment, I thought she might push the issue. But then she nodded, her expression softening. “Okay. Don’t stay out too long, though. It’s freezing out there.” “I won’t,” I promised, stepping outside into the frigid night air. I shoved the door open

