Contents
Chapter 29
Overview
Wren returns heartbroken from parting with Cross and finally breaks down. Gray comforts her, and she confirms the relationship is over. In her quarters, Wren tells Xavier she refused to run, reaffirming her commitment to the Uprising despite the personal cost.
Summary
On the flight back, Wren sits in silence, overwhelmed by the breakup with Cross. When they dock, Gray stops her, asks if she is all right, and Wren breaks down sobbing. Gray holds her as he did after Bryce’s death until the tears fade, then asks if it is over. Wren nods, and Gray tells her it is for the best, though she internally rejects that comfort.
Wren heads inside, detours to the kitchen, and takes a bottle of glenshade to her quarters. In the dark, she drinks until Xavier wakes. She bluntly tells him she and Cross are over. Xavier insists Cross loves her, but Wren says love is separate from staying together.
Wren explains Cross asked her to run and she refused because the coming war and her responsibilities outweigh her feelings. Xavier challenges whether she is giving up; Wren pushes back, stating she is choosing something bigger than herself and cannot abandon their people. The two share the bottle, acknowledging the late hour as they decide how drunk to get.
Who Appears
- WrenProtagonist; devastated after parting with Cross, chooses the Uprising over running away.
- GrayPilot and ally; comforts Wren after the breakup and gently confirms it is over.
- XavierTeammate and roommate; wakes to Wren drinking, questions her choice, then shares the bottle.
- CrossOffstage presence; asked Wren to run, but she refused, ending their relationship.