The Threat

Wren’s POV

I woke up in Torin’s room. Again.

The transition from unconsciousness to reality was jarring, marked by the scent of cedar and cold mint that clung to his bedsheets. The ceiling above me was vast and painted in dark, oppressive tones. My cheek throbbed with a relentless, hot ache, a brutal reminder of Gideon’s backhand.

I turned my head. Nell sat perched at the edge of the mattress