Chapter Twenty One

Odd Shadows

Desmond turned to look at her, his eyes searching hers for reassurance. "It's just hard," he admitted, his voice barely a whisper. "I feel like I'm failing you, failing myself."

Millicent's fingers traced gentle patterns on his arm, trying to soothe his troubled mind. "You haven't failed anyone," she said firmly. "We are in this together, Desmond, and we'll find a way forward. You don't need to prove yourself to anyone. You are enough."

Her words touched something deep within Desmond's heart. He realized that he had been placing too much importance on what others thought of him, especially Queeny. In his quest to protect Millicent and prove himself, he had forgotten to believe in his own worth.

As the days passed, Desmond mustered the courage to defy the shadows of doubt that plagued him. With Millicent's unwavering support, he ventured out once again, determined to find a way to sustain himself and contribute to their safety.

He started taking on odd jobs around the city