"I want to return to my quarters," I said softly.
"No." His answer came immediately. "You're not strong enough yet. Stay here and rest."
"I appreciate your concern," I replied, meeting his eyes. "But I need to be alone. Just for a little while."
He looked like he wanted to argue, but after a long moment, he sighed and relented. "Fine. I'll walk you back myself."
We left together, the palace halls dim with late afternoon shadows. The scent of candle wax and old stone wrapped around us like a shroud. I kept my head low, aware of how frail I must have looked, but Jesse never let me falter, he was always just a step beside me.
Then, just as we turned the corner toward my room, another presence came into view.
Julius.
He leaned casually against the wall, arms folded, as though he'd been waiting. His gaze immediately locked on mine. I froze.
"Bella," he said, his voice dripping with amusement. "Looking much better than the last time I saw you."
