Chapter 34

Noelle let out a sigh as they finally arrived in front of her apartment building. The familiar sight of the slightly worn-down structure gave her a sense of relief after the overwhelming day she had endured. But before she could fully process that comfort, Valerian was already out of the car waiting for her.

He had stepped ahead of her while his sharp eyes followed her every move.

Noelle ignored his stare and focused instead on Alexei, who waved enthusiastically from inside the car.

“Bye, Noelle!” he called out. His voice was muffled slightly as the car door remained open as few of Valerian’s men had taken the seats besides the little boy

Noelle forced a small smile. “Bye, Alexei,” she said softly.

The car door closed shut and silence settled between her and Valerian.

She didn’t acknowledge him. She didn’t even spare him a glance as she turned toward her building, limping. But before she could take another step, his voice cut through the quiet.