Varion’s touch was always the same in the days that followed my captivity.
Careless.
Familiar.
As if my body was something he once misplaced and had now decided belonged back in his hands.
The first time he brushed his fingers along my arm, instinct nearly betrayed me. My magic surged hard and fast, flaring hot behind my eyes, demanding release. Demanding blood because I didn’t want his hands anywhere near me.
Instead, I breathed.
Slow.
Controlled.
Deliberate.
Knowing I needed to pull through in order to set my plan into motion.
And I raised my shield to make sure Varion wouldn’t be able to see any of my memories.
My protection shield settled around my mind like cold glass—smooth, flawless, impenetrable. Not the frantic kind I once threw up when I was afraid, but the refin
