108
~Darlon's POV
I held her in my arms for a long time. Longer than I planned. Longer than I meant to. It felt necessary. It felt like the only thing that could hold the world still for a moment so she could breathe without fear.
Elara leaned into me like she was tired of standing on her own strength. I could feel her heartbeat against my chest. It was steady at first, then uneven, like her emotions were struggling to stay calm.
"Don't think of anything right now," I whispered, my voice low near her ear. "I will make sure you are safe. I will make sure Lira faces the right punishment. She will not get away with this again. I promise you that."
Elara nodded, but her eyes were distant, like part of her was still somewhere else…
"I know," she said softly. "I believe you. I just… I don't want to be afraid anymore."
I pulled back slightly so I could see her face. "You don't have to be afraid. Not with me. Not ever again."
