CHAPTER 174: UNSPOKEN BONDS

Zack sat vigilantly by the side of the bed, his eyes fixed on Dahlia's still form. The room was quiet, save for the rhythmic beat of his heartbeat. Her breathing was steady, but the anxiety gnawed at Zack's insides. He couldn't tear his gaze away from her, worried that something might go wrong if he did. As the minutes turned into hours, Zack found himself lost in thought. Dahlia looked peaceful in her sleep, her features soft and serene. He couldn't help but notice the delicate curve of her lips, the way her eyelashes fanned against her cheeks. She was beautiful, a realization that struck him unexpectedly. He hadn't allowed himself to think of her in such a way before. She was his friend, his comrade in this battle against the shadow wolves. Yet, as he watched over her, a new fleeing blossomed within him. Dahlia stirred, her eyelids fluttering open. Zack leaned forward, his heart pounding. When her eyes finally met his, he felt relieved. "Dahlia," he whispered, his voice thick with