Chapter 10 A Good Friend?

The forest seemed quieter as Alaric moved through its shadows, carrying Eulalia over his shoulder as if she were nothing more than a burden. But unlike the first time, there were no screams or resistance—she was silent. Her fragile body swayed with the steady rhythm of his steps, her face hidden beneath her dark, loose hair, masking her expression. The dress, already torn and filthy from her escape, hung in tatters around her legs, and her swollen ankle made it clear she could barely walk on her own. But Alaric didn’t ask if it hurt, didn’t offer comfort—he just took her back, like a beast returning to its den with its prey.