DAMION’S POV
The corridors of the castle stretched before us, dimly lit by flickering torches. I could feel the tension coiled in Aurora’s body, stiff and defensive as she walked beside me. Her fingers brushed the wall, tracing the cold stone, her steps hesitant.
I slowed to match her pace, softening my voice. “Aurora… you don’t have to be afraid.”
She shot me a sideways glance, lips pressing together. “Afraid of what?” she asked, though the tremor in her voice betrayed her.
“Of what’s outside these walls,” I murmured, stepping closer so she could feel my presence without crowding her. “I won’t let anything hurt you.”
Her green eyes softened for a fleeting moment, and I caught the faintest quiver in her lips. I reached out, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear. My fingers ling
