Chapter 54. A Path Decided

ASTRID

I watched him leave, my heart torn between staying and following Magnus back to his pack. His departure felt like a physical blow, but I stood rooted in place, unable to move.

"I'm going with him," I whispered to no one in particular, trying to convince myself more than anyone else.

Lana stepped up beside me. "You've already made up your mind, haven't you?" she asked softly,

I turned to face her, biting my lip as I nodded. "I have to, Lana. After everything... after the fight between Magnus and Atlas, and that vision of Vesper... I can't just stay here."

Lana's eyes, "I know, Astrid. And you're right. You need to go. Staying here would only mean more heartache. Magnus... he can protect you in ways no one else can."

"Do you think it's for the best?" My voice wavered.

She smiled. "Sometimes, we must follow uncertain paths, even if they take us far from what we know. Trust your instincts, Astrid. You've always been stron