*NEW* Chapter XXXIV

Derek's POV

A trip that was supposed to be short and beneficial for the world had now put us on the verge of yet another war within a decade.

I had moved into Lydia's room entirely. Sleep had abandoned me, leaving only the weight of uncertainty pressing down on my chest. From the couch, I watched her as she shifted in her sleep, her face troubled even in unconsciousness. The sight made my stomach tighten. I had failed her. Not because I hadn't fought hard enough—but because, for the first time, I was terrified that even my strength wouldn't be enough to protect her.

I exhaled sharply, running a hand through my hair before making a decision. Screw the couch.

I climbed into bed beside her, gently pulling her towards me, wrapping her in my arms. Her body instinctively melted into mine, fitting perfectly. She let out a soft sigh, tension leaving her as if she had finally found a sense of security.

My lips pressed against the crown of her head. She was mine to protect. Mine to keep safe. And yet, the unknown loomed over us like a dark cloud.

I tightened my hold on her, as if somehow, I could shield her from whatever fate had in store.

In two days was the trial.

Tonight, I just wanted her to feel safe. Even if I had no idea how I would deal with the outcome. If it was true... if she really was...

I shut my eyes, forcing myself to silence the thoughts.

For now, I just held her, hoping that, for a few hours at least, she could sleep in peace.

Lydia's POV

When I woke up, Derek was no longer beside me. The space where he had been was already cold, as if he had been gone for a while. A small pang of disappointment settled in my chest, but before I could dwell on it, a knock at the door made my heart skip a beat.

Then, I heard Derek's voice.

I quickly ran a hand through my hair, making sure I looked at least minimally presentable, before telling him to come in. The door opened, and to my complete surprise, Vanessa followed behind him.

I jumped out of bed, my exhaustion forgotten as I rushed to hug her tightly. She had cut her honeymoon short just to be here—to comfort me. My chest swelled with gratitude.

We spent the day chatting endlessly—about her honeymoon, the beautiful places she had seen, and how crazy my own trip had been so far. For the first time in days, I felt a sense of normalcy, a break from the overwhelming reality pressing down on me.

To help keep my mind off the looming trial, Vanessa and I filled the hours with different activities, anything to distract me. Laughter, stories, and moments of warmth reminded me that I wasn't alone.

And yet, the whole time, Derek was nowhere to be seen.

I had made my decision.

If I stayed, Derek would never stop fighting for me, even if it meant war. I couldn't let him sacrifice everything—not for something I still didn't fully understand. So, I did the only thing I could do. I agreed to go with the witches.