Chapter 35: Something Ancient At Play

Damien's POV:

As I pushed open the door to our bedroom, a wave of anticipation washed over me. I expected to find Leslie curled up in bed, her gentle breaths filling the air with a sense of calm. But the bed was empty, the sheets undisturbed, and an unsettling knot formed in my stomach. 

"Leslie?" I called out softly, my voice echoing against the silence of the room. No response. I tried to link with her through our bond, but it was as if a wall had been erected between us. Panic gripped me, and I attempted to reach her again, desperation flooding my thoughts. 

"Leslie, where are you?" 

Just then, Elara emerged from her room, her demeanor too casual for my liking. "Hey, Damien. Looking for someone?" 

I felt the hair on the back of my neck stand up. "Have you seen Leslie?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady. 

"Oh, she went for a walk earlier," Elara replied, her tone deceptively innocent.