Chapter 34. The Question

Anastasia's POV

The anxiety for the next test mounts, blending with uncertainty about what it will bring. I miss Ryan, whose lively, cheerful words and reassuring presence always gave me a sense of direction and happiness. His absence is keenly felt, and with each passing day without finding him, my concern grows. How does no one know Ryan? He told me he was a royal guard; he wore the official uniform.

Having Ryan's presence in my dreams has become almost routine. The dreams are so vivid; I can almost feel his touch on my skin, his warm breath near my neck, his strong hands holding me firmly. I always wake up feeling like something is missing inside me. Ryan occupies my mind too much, even when I'm asleep, and when I wake up, the reality of his absence is a constant burden, along with my complete concern about his whereabouts.

My mind wanders as I continue to watch the rain. Each drop that runs down the window is a reflection of my state of mind; I f