Eloise's heart was heavy with an overwhelming sense of defeat. The fight within her seemed to vanish, drained away by a force beyond her control. Why resist? She thought, as her shoulders slumped in resignation. Let him pull me along, like a puppet on a string. When he’s finally had enough of me, when he doesn't even want to look at me anymore, I’ll quietly slip away. The thought of leaving, of finding some peace, was almost a comfort. At least it would be on her terms, and not at the whim of someone who had never truly cared for her, someone who believed she was just another possession to be discarded when no longer needed. But then, Ainsley’s voice shattered her dark thoughts. "Eloise, stop cursing Aura. She’s dead, and you’re still alive. Don't you think it's pathetic to be consumed w

