I practically sprinted back to my house, my heart hammering against my ribs. With every glance over my shoulder, I searched for any sign of the Aegis Seers. Reaching the familiar door, I fumbled to open it for a moment before shoving the door open and tumbling inside.
The wave of warmth that greeted me felt like a hug. Here, within these walls, the shadows seemed to hold less menace.
Mom's voice, laced with concern, drifted from the kitchen.
"Gracelynn, is that you?"
"Yeah," I called back, trying to catch my breath.
"Did you get Theon a gift, or did you waste those Grecines on some trinket?"
I sighed, a touch dramatic this time to mask the knot of worry in my stomach. "Actually, Mom, I put my own desires aside and got him something."
A smile, tinged with relief, softened her features. "Good. Now go get yourself ready for his party."
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