Chapter 66

One time, Grandma went out, and I fell ill. She came home very late, and by then, I was already quite sick. Ever since then, I had been terrified of complete darkness. Cold sweat broke out on my back and palms as people moved past me in a chaotic stream. I couldn't see ahead and was jostled around, bumping into others repeatedly. I had no idea who had taken my hairpin from behind, but suddenly, a warm, dry hand clasped my wrist. Before I could react, I was pulled into someone's embrace. The familiar scent of cedarwood filled my nostrils. I knew I should tell him to let go, but fear kept me silent. Subconsciously, I clung to his sleeve as though it were my last lifeline. "Don't be afraid," Ethan said as he led me forward. His usual cold voice was inexplicably gentle at that moment. I closed my eyes and followed him, unsure of where we were headed but noticing that the crowd around us was thinning. The rhythmic tapping of shoes on the floor was the only sound I could hear. "Where a