Genevieve's POV
I remained pressed against the rough bark until the afternoon sun began its descent. The harsh heat that had scorched my tear-stained cheeks softened into something gentler. The light transformed from blazing white to liquid gold, casting everything in an ethereal glow that reminded me of being trapped in honey.
Through my swollen eyes, I watched the world blur and shimmer. The tears had finally stopped flowing, but my face felt raw and puffy. Every breath still sent sharp pangs through my ribs.
Then a shadow cut across the golden light.
I glanced up to find blonde hair catching the sun like a crown. Even through my hazy vision, I knew that silhouette anywhere. Julian.
"How did you track me down?" My voice sounded like I had been screaming for hours.
He lowered himself to crouch in front of me. Those familiar blue eyes studied my face with such gentle concern that my throat threatened to close up again.
"The surveillance devices," he said matter-of-factly.
