Chapter 253

Clara never liked waking in a house draped in gloom. Darkness unsettled her. She preferred every light blazing, every corner bright.

But this was not her home. She quickened her pace down the stairs.

"Cla." Declan's voice drifted from the living room, warm and gentle, yet edged with something unfamiliar. It was an emotion she couldn't name.

Clara looked over. Declan sat quietly on the sofa, the am