Chapter 190

Lauren's POV

After I finished eating, I sat back in silence for a moment, my eyes lingering on the now empty plates. The maids had left some time ago, but the smell of pancakes and syrup still hung faintly in the air. 

Letting out a quiet breath, I pushed the tray aside and got up. The soft carpet muffled my steps as I walked into the bathroom. The large mirror greeted me with a reflection I barely recognized. I stared at myself for a moment longer before turning on the shower.

Warm water rushed down my body, washing away the dirt, the exhaustion, and maybe a small fraction of the pain that had clung to me since yesterday. My thoughts ran wild as the water hit my skin, flashes of Aria’s smile, the sound of her laughter, the way she’d reach out her small hands for a hug whenever she saw me.

Where was she now? Was she safe? Was she crying for me?

By the time I turned off the shower and stepped out, my mind was heavy again. I grabbed