Souls Through Time (EzioxOC/DesmondxOC)

Chapter 35 - Claire

As they approached the Colosseum, Claire's breath caught. The ancient structure loomed before them, grand and unyielding despite the layers of scaffolding draped over its weathered stone. Even in its crumbling state, the Colosseum carried an imposing, timeless power. The pale morning light cast long shadows, accentuating every crevice and scar etched into the walls, a testament to centuries of history.

Walking through the towering arches, Claire felt a chill run through her. She could practically hear the echoes of history, of roaring crowds and the clash of gladiator battles long faded to legend. She cast a glance over at Desmond, his face reflecting a similar awe, though there was something more—a determination, a readiness that mirrored her own.

Desmond's low murmur of "Déjà vu" pulled her attention. She caught his quiet smile, and for a moment, all the tension of the past days faded. This place, despite its imposing presence, felt oddly familiar, like they were standing in the shadow of destiny itself.

Rebecca's wry look brought them all back to the present. "I bet."

"This is it," Claire whispered, feeling the weight of their mission settle over her like a cloak. The urgency of their dwindling timeline pressed into her, the enormity of what lay ahead simmering just beneath her calm exterior. She glanced once more at Desmond, feeling a rush of both fear and hope. They were so close.

"Let's end this."

Claire's gaze lingered on Desmond as they approached the edge of the landing, her heart thudding steadily, each beat an echo of the promise they'd made to one another. She wanted to be there beside him through every step, every leap, and every challenge they faced. The uncertainty of what they might encounter gnawed at her, yet the unbreakable bond they'd built over the past weeks fortified her resolve.

Shaun's voice interrupted her thoughts, bringing a bit of levity. "What about us? You might actually need a historian down there."

Lucy nodded, her voice strong and decisive as she turned to the rest of the team. "Shaun's right. We'll need every member of this team, including our historian. This tunnel should lead us under Capitoline Hill. Rebecca, I want you on alert for anything technical. Shaun, help us find another entrance."

Rebecca's eyes lit up as she reached for the car keys. "I'll drive."

Shaun's hand was faster, snatching the keys from her grip with a mischievous glint in his eye. "Nice try, Rebecca. I've seen how you handle a car. Let's avoid any more close calls, yeah?"

As they turned to leave, Claire lingered, rooted in place as the team moved forward. She knew this might be one of their last moments before things truly spiraled into the unknown. Turning to Desmond, she reached up, her hand trembling slightly as she cupped his cheek. The warmth of his skin beneath her fingers grounded her, anchoring her in this moment before the storm.

"I am going to go with them," she whispered, her voice soft but filled with the weight of everything she felt. "Be careful, okay?"

Desmond's gaze softened, his hand rising to cover hers. For a moment, he leaned into her touch, his face gentle in a way that made her heart ache. "I'll see you soon."

Without another word, he leaned down, pressing a quick kiss to her lips. Claire held onto the feeling, letting it seep into her bones, a reminder of the strength they shared. She felt her heart steady, fortified by the warmth of his presence, even as he pulled back to prepare for his jump.

The van rumbled along the darkened streets of Rome, the low hum of the engine filling the silence that stretched between the team. The historic city passed by outside, bathed in the cool glow of streetlights, which cast long, ghostly shadows over the ancient architecture. Claire leaned her head against the window, her gaze tracing the uneven silhouettes of buildings that had withstood centuries of conflict and change. In them, she saw echoes of the battles they now faced, a reminder of the relentless struggle between freedom and control.