Chapter 26

VALERIA’S POV “But how? I thought they killed everyone,” I said, my voice trembling as reality sank in. My mind reeled, trying to make sense of what Elijah was saying. He shook his head, his expression grave but unwavering. “Not here,” he said firmly, his tone leaving no room for argument. He turned and started walking away, his strides purposeful. I hesitated for a moment before following silently, my heart pounding in my chest. My thoughts were a chaotic jumble, questions pressing against my lips, but I held them back until we were alone. As soon as we were far enough from the others, I couldn’t contain myself any longer. “Elijah,” I said, my voice low but insistent. “How is it possible? And why don’t I remember you?” He stopped abruptly, turning to face me. For a moment, his dark eyes bore into mine, and I could see a storm of emotions swirling behind them—grief, anger, and something else I couldn’t quite place. “Because it’s a different story,” he began, his voice heavy with the we