Page 49 of Shadows of Change

"I’ve got this," I mutter, searching for another way across. But as I stand there, indecision gnawing at me, I can’t help but wonder—am I being stubborn, or am I finally taking control?

The shadows go still around me, waiting for my next move.

Suddenly, my amethyst necklace glows against my skin, startling me. A warm, tingling sensation spreads from the stone, and for a split second, I swear I hear whispers—ancient, melodic voices just beyond my comprehension.

"What the hell?" I mutter, grasping the pendant. It throbs again, more insistent this time.

Before I can ponder this new mystery, a familiar voice calls out from behind me. "Kaia! Are you alright?"

I whirl around to find Darian striding toward me, concern etched on his unfairly handsome face. My heart does a little flip, even as my brain screams suspicious timing.

"Darian? How did you get in here?" I ask, torn between relief and wariness.

He flashes that disarming smile. "I convinced Thorne to let me observe. You looked like you could use a friendly face. Besides, you’ve been in here for hours."

I snort, gesturing at the chasm. "What I could use is a bridge."

Then it hits me. “Hours?” I say bewildered. I’ve been in here minutes.

Darian’s expression turns serious. "Thorn’s kept an eye on you. You’ve been walking in circles.”

No freakin’ way.

“But this?” He continues, gesturing toward the chasm, you have the power to cross, Kaia. Trust your instincts."

"My instincts are telling me to turn around and find another way," I grumble.

He steps closer, his gray eyes intense. "Your shadows want to help you. Why are you fighting them?"

I bite my lip, memories of the guys’ warnings flashing through my mind. "I don’t know who to trust anymore."

Darian’s hand finds mine, his touch warm and reassuring. "Trust yourself, Kaia. That’s all that matters."

As if on cue, my necklace hums. This time, instead of resisting, I close my eyes and let the sensation wash over me. My shadows respond, swirling around my feet with renewed purpose.

"You can do this," Darian murmurs.

I take a deep breath and step forward. My shadows surge, forming a solid bridge across the chasm. I cross swiftly, turning back to see Darian’s approving smile.

"See?" he calls. "You don’t need anyone controlling you. You’re incredible on your own."

His words soothe the lingering doubts in my mind. Maybe the guys were wrong about him. Maybe Darian is the only one who truly believes in me.

"Thanks," I say, meaning it. "I guess I just needed a push in the right direction."

Darian’s smile widens. "That’s what I’m here for. Now, shall we tackle the next challenge together?"

As we move deeper into the maze, I can’t help but feel grateful for his presence. My necklace continues to flare with a faint glowoccasionally, but I’m too focused on Darian’s encouragement to give it much thought. For the first time since entering this maze, I feel like I might actually succeed.

I nod, a smirk tugging at my lips. "Together it is. Though I’m pretty sure I just proved I can handle myself."

Darian chuckles, his gray eyes twinkling. "That you did. I’m merely here to bask in your glory."

As we round another corner, I catch sight of my reflection in a shimmering wall. My shadows dance around me, agitated. Bob, in particular, seems to be throwing a full-on tantrum, stretching and contorting into bizarre shapes.

"Whoa there, buddy," I mutter. "What’s got your darkness in a twist?"

Darian glances at me. "Everything alright?"

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