CHAPTER FIFTEEN
The cobblestones are cool beneath my bare feet as we wander through the narrow streets of Golden Paw, our small haven hidden away from the human world. Luca walks beside me, his presence both comforting and unsettling as I prepare to reveal a truth that's been gnawing at my insides for far too long.
"Beautiful evening," he comments, gazing up at the dusky sky where stars begin their nightly shimmer. His voice is soft, like the gentle hum of the earth beneath us.
"Always is," I reply, trying to keep my tone light despite the weight on my shoulders.
We round a corner, and the central square opens up before us. The fountain, an intricate masterpiece of stone wolves frolicking in immortal play, sends a fine mist into the air that sparkles in the fading light. We find a benc
