Chapter 51

Neverra arrives at Samkiel’s castle while Samkiel attends a council. She explains she slipped away from Logan to speak with Dianna, commenting on celestial courtship and recalling how she became The Hand, finding family with Samkiel’s retinue and later with Logan.

When Dianna challenges her purpose, Neverra admits she and Logan grew close to Gabriella. She confesses guilt over the day of Gabriella’s death: against Samkiel’s orders they left the condo briefly, Rick visited, Drake appeared, and the attackers struck before Neverra could react or call for help. Dianna, drained and numb, tells Neverra it is not her fault and reveals her own culpability for bringing Gabriella into this world.

Before leaving, Neverra gives Dianna a folded note Gabriella had entrusted to her in Yejedin. Neverra departs in a pop of blue light.

Dianna opens the letter. Gabriella writes lovingly, urging Dianna to be brave, to forgive herself, to accept love, and not to let fear or Kaden’s betrayals steal future happiness. Gabriella insists Dianna has always been loved and asks her to live fully if Gabriella is gone.

The reality of loss finally crashes over Dianna. She collapses in anguished sobs, accepting that Gabriella will not return. Exhausted, Dianna gathers the letter and a picture, retreats to bed, and shuts out the world, consumed by grief.