Fractured Comforts

The car pulled into the driveway of Elion's massive estate, the tires making a soft crunch against the gravel. The mansion stood tall, its impressive size highlighted by the silvery moonlight. Inside the car, Elion glanced at Raelynn, who remained nestled in his arms, her face pale and her breathing shallow. His chest tightened.

He didn't wait for the driver to open the door. Carefully, he shifted her in his arms and stepped out, cradling her close as though she might break if he wasn't careful. The cool night air brushed against them, but Elion's focus remained fixed solely on her.

"Almost there," he murmured, more to himself than to Raelynn. Her eyelids fluttered slightly, but she didn't respond.

The front doors of the house opened as he approached. The soft sound of laughter and the faint hum of music greeted him, remnants of Sloane's usual lively evening.