C13 Between Trust and Doubt

Damien stepped closer, his voice steady and resolute. “You are not cursed,” he said, his eyes locked onto hers with unwavering certainty. “But I do think your lineage is why you smell different.”

Just as the words left his lips, a knock echoed through the room. His body tensed for a split second before he exhaled, forcing himself to relax. “Stay put,” he muttered, striding toward the door