The courtyard was too quiet.
Aria’s breath hitched as the shadowy claw around the girl’s throat pulsed, tightening just enough to make her whimper. Rage surged through Aria’s chest so hot she thought she’d ignite again, but Killian’s hand shot out, gripping her wrist.
“Not yet,” he murmured, his voice like steel wrapped in velvet. “If you lose control, she dies.”
Aria swallowed hard, forcing the fire back down, her entire body shaking. “He wants me,” she whispered. “That’s what this is about. He wants me to come to him.”
The Shadow Alpha’s laughter slithered over the courtyard, curling into her ears like poison.
“Wise little key,” the voice cooed. “Step forward and I will spare them. All of them. Play Alpha’s little mate a while longer, and I will make this one choke before your eyes.
