Chapter-151. The Garden of Love

Xerina’s POV

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm, soft light across the room. I felt lighter today. The nightmares hadn’t been as sharp, the memories not as haunting. Maybe it was because of Rasmus—his presence. His promise. The ritual.

Rasmus had convinced me to take a walk outside. I hadn’t realized how cooped up I felt until the cool breeze touched my skin. The world outside was peaceful, the garden full of flowers in every imaginable color. The air smelled sweet, with hints of lavender and roses.

We walked side by side, in silence at first. His hand brushed against mine, and the contact sent a warmth spreading through me. I looked up at him, but he was staring ahead, his jaw clenched like he was holding something back.

“You always loved the gardens,” he said, his voice quiet but heavy with meaning.

I glanced around, trying to remember, trying to feel some sort of familiarity with the place. It was beautiful, that muc