Chapter 19: Heartbreaking Farewell
Johanna's POV
I led Troy through Castrum's hidden paths, my heart heavy with the impending goodbye.
"Troy, I have to leave," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.
Troy's eyes widened.
"What? Why?"
I forced a lie.
"I've found a way to defeat Azazela. Alone."
Troy's skepticism deepened.
"Johanna, I won't let you go."
My resolve crumbled.
"Troy, please...you'll get killed trying to protect me."
Troy's expression softened.
"You're pushing me away...to save me."
I nodded, tears welling.
"Yes."
Troy's voice cracked.
"Johanna, I—"
"Don't," I interrupted. "Just go. Live."
Third person POV
Azazela watched from the shadows.
Johanna's sacrifice would seal her fate.
Troy's departure would leave Johanna vulnerable.
My next move...
Johanna's POV
Troy grasped my shoulders.
"I won't leave you, Johanna. Ever."
I pushed him away.
"Go!"
Troy's eyes locked onto mine.
"I'll find you. I promise."
With a heavy heart, Troy vanished into the night.
Alone, I wept.
My love for Troy would be our demise.
Azazela's relentless pursuit.
My destiny...