VALERIA

I pushed the wooden door, which was barely hanging on its hinges, and it let out a loud creak.

Inside, the stench of mold, rotting wood, and decay hit my nose like a slap, my eyes adjusting to the overwhelming darkness.

Beside me, I noticed some remains of wooden beams from what used to be a doorframe.

I picked up one with my trembling hands, playing the heroine once again.

What I was doing was far too dangerous and reckless—I knew that.

But I couldn’t just let them take him right in front of my eyes.

I couldn't lose another pup, or I would never forgive myself.

Step by step, I ventured deeper into what seemed like the entrance hall and then into a living area, keeping a watchful eye on the floor where the wooden planks were lifted in some places, leaving dark, deep holes with no visible bottom.

"Miss Valeria!"

Edward’s tearful voice called from above, and I immediately raised my head, spotting him at the top of the staircase, trapped between the shadows and the beams of moonl