Chapter 127: The Fear Within

"Open the door for me, Caitlin," Zendedari’s voice rumbled, his dark eyes fixed on her with a gaze that threatened to consume her whole. "Let me breathe the night." Caitlin swallowed hard, sensing the authority in his words, an authority that made it clear that no one—not even her with all her compassion and care—could resist his will. She was beginning to understand this undeniable force within him, a will that had been forged in realms far darker than she could ever imagine. Without a word, she obeyed, moving toward the door and pulling it open. The cool night air swept in, filling the room with a sudden calm. She turned back to him, concern flashing in her eyes. “You didn’t try to get up, did you? You can’t, Zen. You’ll do too much damage. If you keep reopening your wounds, you’ll end up looking like Frankenstein.” He had closed his eyes, inhaling deeply as if savoring the fresh air. His voice was low, almost a whisper. *We don’t scar, Caitlin. Not like you humans.* The realiza