The sun had just begun to rise when Lucia opened her eyes, the pain from her injuries still a dull throb. It had been days since the fight with Miranda, and while her human body would normally take months to recover, Thora’s healing herbs had worked wonders. The cuts and bruises were fading, and the fractured bones had mended enough for her to be discharged from the clinic.
As Lucia slowly sat up, she was greeted by Agatha and Fenris, their faces etched with concern and relief. Nicholo had insisted on bringing her home, but Agatha, still upset and worried, had firmly refused. She knew Nicholo wasn’t to blame, but his closeness to Lucia was the very reason why girls like Miranda targeted her.
“I appreciate your kindness, Nicholo,” Agatha had said, her tone polite but firm, “But we will ta
