Chapter 129

• Ashley's POV:
• Left in nothing more than the oversized shirt gifted by Luther, Ashley stood alone, utterly confused. Desperately clinging to the edges of her makeshift dress, anxiety began to gnaw at her. Why did Luther seem so furious before he stormed off? The hurriedness of his departure left a pit in her stomach. Despite his instructions to remain in the room while waiting, an inexplicable unease tormented her. Scanning the room, her gaze fell on a scattered array of books, each inscribed with strange symbols. The purpose or knowledge they held was unclear.
• "You almost appear like a juvenile in that attire," a deep voice interrupted her thoughts. Lifting her head, she saw Lucas standing at the doorway. Her heart sank as her eyes registered his bloodied mouth and clothing. Taken aback, her instinct kicked in, causing her to retreat hastily. In her panic, however, she tripped over one of the books strewn across the floor. As she prepared herself for an imminent fall, nothing happened - no impact, no jarring pain.