Chapter 168

Sarah's POV The night was dark and moonless. Not a single star dotted the ink-black sky above. I stood on the balcony, letting the cool ocean breeze tangle through my hair and flutter the hem of my dress. The rhythmic crashing of waves in the distance provided a soothing backdrop to my troubled thoughts. I couldn't tell how long I'd been standing there, my mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. The gentle weight of a cardigan settling across my shoulders pulled me from my daze, followed by a familiar voice. "Penny for your thoughts?" Nate's gentle voice came from beside me. "Standing out here so lightly dressed? You're asking to catch a cold," he added with genuine concern. I blinked, coming back to reality, and turned to look at him. Alpha Nate Santos stood tall beside me, his frame lean yet powerful. Despite his youthful appearance, the alpha aura surrounding him was unmistakable. "It's summer. I hardly think I'll catch a cold," I replied, unable to hold back a small smile. "Don't