Chapter 42. I Must Find Them

Alison’s POV

The clock on my nightstand ticked endlessly, each second dragging into an eternity. I tossed and turned, but sleep refused to come. My mind was a storm, and I was caught in its eye. Memories of Caitlyn’s smug words, Xander’s cold distance, and the hollow feeling that had settled in my chest churned relentlessly. The bed felt like quicksand, pulling me deeper into despair with every passing second.

I threw the blanket off with a frustrated sigh, the cool air prickling my skin. If I stayed here a moment longer, I’d lose my mind. Throwing on a hoodie and leggings, I slipped out of my room, my bare feet making almost no sound against the cold marble floor.

The castle was eerily silent at night, the dim lighting casting long shadows on the walls. My steps were aimless at first, but soon I found myself heading toward the rooftop. Something about the open air and the stars had always calmed me, back when this place felt like home.

As I pushed the