Chapter 91: TROUBLING GOODBYE

Reluctantly, Xina agreed to leave with Archer, Gallahan, and Noah, though every fiber of her being resisted. She could see how determined Gary was to head to the east district with the dragon shifter, Edward. The urgency in his expression was undeniable, and as much as she wanted to stay by his side, she knew she couldn’t stop him. His responsibility as king called him elsewhere, and Xina didn’t want to be the reason he neglected his duty. Still, she had a nagging feeling deep inside, one that left her uneasy about letting him go. She hated it—hated the way her chest tightened as if warning her of something terrible on the horizon. But then guilt surged within her. How selfish was she, asking Gary to ignore the needs of his kingdom? "I’ll be back in a week, okay?" Gary reassured her as he helped her step into the carriage that would take her back to the palace. Edward and Gary had planned to leave after sunset, and Xina didn’t want to remain alone with the Duchess in the dragon castl