Elara stepped back into the Robin packhouse, the scent of pine and something acrid –burnt resentment, perhaps aimed directly at her– hitting her nostrils. The air felt thick, charged. It wasn't a welcoming homecoming.
Damon was waiting for her in the main hall, arms crossed, a sneer plastered on his face. The marks from Kaelen's imposed lashes were still visible under his collar, a brutal reminder of the price he'd paid for his cruelty.
"Well, well," he drawled, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Look who finally decided to grace us with her presence. Back from your little rendezvous with royalty, I presume?"
Elara stood her ground, despite the tremor that threatened to run through her. "I was in the hospital, Damon. You knew that."
"Oh, I knew something kept you away. I just didn't kno
