The Preparation

I held Athlea close, gently rubbing her back as she trembled in my arms. Her pain was raw, open, and inescapable, and I couldn't deny the feeling of helplessness that settled deep in my chest. Still, I whispered softly to her, hoping to soothe some of her agony. 

"It's going to be alright," I murmured, stroking her hair. "Your husband will come soon. Don't worry." 

Inwardly, I was less certain. The man had practically vanished, and I had no doubt that he wouldn't show up anytime soon, especially now that we knew there was something hidden within his company's walls. But Athlea needed comfort, not more questions, so I kept my suspicions to myself. 

I felt her nod slightly, though the relief I'd hoped to offer didn't seem to reach her eyes. I was about to say more when I noticed something unusual—a group of knights lingering near the hospital entrance, their attention focused intently on us. They weren't hiding it either; each gaze was sharp, assessing.