Julian's POV
I didn't stay in the hallway a second longer than I had to. The air felt toxic, poisoned by Richard's parting threat. I turned and stormed back toward my room, my boots heavy on the floor. Catherine followed me immediately, her footsteps quick and light as she struggled to keep up with my pace. As we moved to the room, I felt her eyes on me. She was staring at us in a state of total confusion and grief, but I couldn't explain to her now. I couldn't stop to comfort her. My mind was moving too fast, fueled by a mix of adrenaline and a terrifying sense of urgency.
