Chapter 129

After the interview, we returned to the building where our four lofts were housed. The loft was starting to become a new sanctuary, but I couldn’t help but miss the penthouse where everything had begun.

The warm, flickering glow of candlelight softened the loft’s rugged edges when I entered, making it feel almost safe. Tonight, it smelled of roasted herbs and sizzling meat—comforting, familiar scents that told me Andra was cooking for us once again.

Jormun walked alongside me as we entered and took our time to settle. I was starting to realize that he always had a talent for grounding me, even when my world teetered in chaos.

I ran my fingers over the sleek stone of the kitchen island as I stared at the glass of dark red wine in front of me. The ruby liquid caught the firelight like it was alive, shimmering and swirling with an untold depth. It reminded me of myself—on the surface, calm and collected; underneath, a tempest brewing.

“Dinner is served,” Andra a