The realization struck me hard my death was only a minuscule thread in a vast, intricate web, too small to stir even the faintest ripple. In the unseen corners of the world, countless others shared my misfortune. Their ends were as inconspicuous as strays struck down on empty roads, unnoticed and unremembered.
Millions vanished every year across the nation, and those were just the reported ones. How many more disappeared in silence, their absence unacknowledged? Where did they all go?
I didn't let my thoughts wander too far down that road.
Lewis wrapped his arms around me, his warmth steady and grounding, carrying that quiet strength that came with being my mate. "Elena, you're not a god. You can't save everyone. People have their paths their destinies." His voice carried the calm certainty of someone who had led others through worse.
"I know, Lewis. I do," I said, though my voice wavered.
