Hayley’s pov

"I won't leave you; are you kidding me?" I exclaimed. The panic in my throat made it impossible to comprehend how he could even consider separating us during such a crucial moment.

A sense of urgency and fear were palpable in Aiden's expression as he turned to me.

"I'm not joking," he declared, his tone stern.

His eyes darted towards the cloaked figure that had shifted slightly, and its glowing gaze suggested imminent danger.

"If my hunch is right," he trailed off, unable to guarantee our safety if we remained close to each other."

"I won't leave you to face this alone!" I exclaimed, my voice rising.

However,...