Leonidas POV
One hundred years ago
The ball my father threatened to hold is tonight. When I told him I had no plans to attend, he threatened to kill Anila. With Evanora at his disposal, he doesn't need Anila. Her sole purpose is to be used as a bargaining tool. Father knows I will not risk her life.
There is a weak knock on my door. Her cinnamon scent wafts through the door, and I race to answer it. Swinging the door open, I can't wipe the look of concern off my face.
"Mother," I sigh. "You should be in bed."
She is pale and unsteady on her feet. The years she has spent enduring my father's abuse have taken their toll. She is dying. The constant betrayal of the mate bond is more than her body can take.
Even in her weakened state, she saves a smile for me. "I was hoping
