Chapter 21. Fight for Survival

Derek turned around to check on Ella and noticed she was awake, her eyes locked on him, a mixture of confusion and determination reflected in her gaze. He could tell she had a thousand questions swirling in her mind. With a sigh, he pulled a chair closer and sat down across from her.

“How are you feeling?” Derek asked, his voice soft.

“You saved me,” Ella replied weakly, her voice barely a whisper. “Thank you.”

Without thinking, Derek reached out, brushing a stray strand of hair away from her face, tucking it behind her ear. “You’re still weak,” he said, concern etched on his face. “The doctors did what they could for the silver burns, but you need more time to rest and regain your strength.”

Ella winced as she tried to shift on the bed, her thoughts racing. “Moore… he’s in danger,” she said, her voice laced with worry. “I need to be by his side, Derek. I have to get to the South.”

Derek shook his head, his expression firm but laced with concern. “They