The weight of Rowan's words settled deep in Evie's chest.

"Then let us be the ones to catch you if you fall."

It should have been comforting. It should have reassured her.

But instead, it made her throat tighten.

Because she knew, deep down, that if she lost control... if the darkness inside her grew, there would be nothing left for them to catch.

Rowan must have sensed her thoughts because his grip on her face tightened, his thumbs brushing gently against her cheeks. "Don't you dare spiral," he murmured. "Not without us."

A shaky breath escaped her lips. "Rowan, I—"

Before she could finish, a sudden rush of exhaustion crashed over her, making her sway.

Rowan cursed his arms wrapping securely around her waist.

His heart pounded in his chest.

"That's it," he muttered. "You're done pushing yourself for today. We're going back to the dorm."

Evie wanted to protest, but she was too drained—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

And so, she let Rowan guide her back.

______________________________ The moment they stepped inside, all hell broke loose.

Seth was the first to rush forward, his crimson eyes blazing. "Where the hell did you take her, Rowan?!"

Before Rowan could answer, Duke was already at Evie's side, his hands gently cupping her face. His golden eyes searched hers desperately, his voice uncharacteristically tight. "Angel, are you okay?"

Sol, ever the calming presence, was next, reaching out to tuck a strand of her hair behind her ear. His voice was warm, but the tension in his shoulders betrayed his worry. "Little star, whats going on , share it with us."

Evie's chest ached at the concern in their faces.

She hadn't meant to make them worry.

"I... I just needed some air," she said softly.

Duke sighed and pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Sweetheart, we get it, okay? You're overwhelmed. But running off on your own isn't the answer."

Evie swallowed, guilt settling deep in her bones.

Rowan cleared his throat. "I think she needs rest more than a lecture."

Seth crossed his arms but didn't argue. "Fine. But she's not sleeping alone."

A smirk tugged at Duke's lips. "You just wanna be her cuddle buddy."

Seth scowled. "Shut up, Duke."

Evie couldn't help it—she laughed.

The princes immediately froze, their gazes snapping to her in surprise.

It was a small laugh, barely more than a breathy giggle, but it was real.

And for the first time in hours, she felt lighter.

Rowan shook his head with a soft chuckle. "Alright, enough drama. Let's get her settled." ______________________________ After changing into comfortable clothes, Evie found herself curled up on the large couch in the common area, surrounded by warmth.

Duke had claimed the seat beside her, his arm draped lazily over the back of the couch.

Sol sat on the floor in front of her, his head resting against her knee.

Seth was beside him, arms crossed but noticeably closer than usual.

Rowan, ever the strategist, sat near the fireplace, watching them all with a small, knowing smirk.

It felt... safe.

Comforting.

For a moment, she allowed herself to forget about the weight of the revelations, the looming threat of Alaric, and the terrifying power within her.

For a moment, she was just Evie.

Just the girl who had somehow found herself falling for four stubborn, overprotective princes.

"You're staring, little star," Sol teased, tilting his head to look at her.

Evie blushed. "Am not."

Seth smirked. "You totally are."

Duke grinned. "I mean, we are ridiculously handsome. It's understandable."

Evie rolled her eyes but smiled nonetheless.

Rowan, watching her closely, leaned forward. "You seem... more relaxed."

She hesitated. "I think I just needed this," she admitted. "To be with you guys. To remind myself that I'm still me."

Duke squeezed her hand. "You'll always be you, angel."

Seth huffed. "Yeah, even if you do have some crazy world-ending magic."

Sol elbowed him. "Not helping."

Seth shrugged. "What? It's true. But it doesn't change anything." He looked at Evie then, his gaze softer. "You're still ours."

Evie's heart clenched.

They made it sound so simple.

But deep down, she knew things were about to get a lot more complicated. _____________________________

But deep in the shadows, far beyond the academy's borders, something stirred.

Watching. Waiting.

And Evie's peace?

Wouldn't last for long.