Chapter 146

The aftermath of the brutal battle was a sight that would remain etched in my memory, and while part of me longed to return to ensure Alice received the dignified burial she deserved, I also felt a strange sense of relief at being distanced from the heartbreaking reality of it all.

"I left Rudy and Sam to see to the bodies and take them to the morgue. From there, their families will have the opportunity to identify and claim them," Xavier explained, placing his hand supportively on my knee. "It's an undeniably harrowing duty, but I have complete faith in their ability to handle it."

I kept my gaze fixed on the rearview mirror, watching as the courthouse and the chilling sight of the departed faded away when Steve took another turn. I caught a glimpse of Xavier wearing a sorrowful smile, an understanding passing silently between us, acknowledging the tempest of emotions swirling within me, before I felt his arms envelop me once more, pulling me snugly against his side.