Chapter 48

I sprinted along the dimly lit path of the forest, my heart hammering against my ribcage. The fear of losing her again, tightened its icy grip around my chest as I pushed my legs to move faster, branches whipping my face, and the underbrush clawing at my ankles.

Each step felt like an eternity, the uncertainty of the danger ahead gnawing at my determination. Images of Ashley's smile, laughter, and the warmth of her touch flooded my thoughts, intensifying my resolve to shield her from this darkness.

Time blurred as I hurtled forward, fueled by a primal need to protect the one I loved. The forest seemed to thicken, fog covered my pathway leading to Black Moon. Yet, I refused to give in to the paralyzing grip of fear. With each breath, I drew strength from the thought of her, my soul crying out this suffocating blackness.

Finally, I burst into the small clearing, and my heart sank. Trevor stood at the border with a look of uneasiness and his fa