Wendy's POV
The city bathes in violet twilight as we prepare for what lies ahead. We move through our packing ritual without words. Javier folds each piece of clothing with military precision, as if every careful crease might somehow prove his worth to stand beside me in the darkness that awaits.
He catches me watching and flashes that infuriating grin that makes my pulse quicken despite everything. "Most people spend their evenings at happy hour, not planning expeditions through forgotten tunnels."
I roll my eyes, though I can't quite hide my smile. "Most people don't carry the weight of divine punishment."
"Good point."
He seals our supplies in his pack and turns to face me fully. "You really believe this temple holds the key to finding Helena?"
"If the sacred ground still recognizes me, yes."
"And if it doesn't?"
A sharp pain shoots through my skull. "Then everything burns."
The color drains from his face. "No pressure at all."
