Hopeful.
The demons are still a threat.
But they’re not right on our doorstep anymore, and that changes everything.
***
Later that afternoon, Heinrich and I stand outside the cabin watching the sun dip behind the snowy mountain peaks.
The valley glows gold in the fading light. It's peaceful. Safe.
At least for now.
Heinrich slips his arms around me from behind, resting his chin lightly against my shoulder.
“So,” he murmurs softly. “Your vision just made my decision easier.”
I lean back into him. “How so?”
“Because if the portal is in another valley, the human world isn’t nearly as dangerous as it was a few days ago,” he says, and my heart skips a beat, prompting me to turn in his arms slowly.
“You mean…”
His lips curve into a warm smile when my voice tapers off.
“I made you a promise, Annika.”
My breath catches as a smile toys on my lips.
“You said you wanted to see your sister.”
Emotion tightens my chest, and he continues.
“And I meant it when I said I’d take you.”
Hope flutters through me so suddenly that it almost feels fragile.
“Soon?” I whisper.
Heinrich brushes a strand of hair away from my face, his thumb tracing gently along my cheek.
“Very soon.” His gaze softens, something deeper flickering beneath the surface.
“And when we do, there are a few things I’d like to say to you.”
My pulse quickens now.
“Oh?”
Heinrich chuckles softly, pressing a lingering kiss to my forehead. “Patience, Luna.”
I nod gently, closing my eyes when his lips meet my forehead again. For the first time since everything began, the future finally feels within reach.
“I was thinking…” I begin, and he hums against my forehead.
“Hmm…?”
“We shouldn't have to give up our lives in the human world. The company…the research…the help Alpha Pharmaceuticals has been extending thanks to Anastasia…I don't think we should give it up.”
