Victor’s POV
My hand moved on instinct, blocking Michael’s view with my shoulder as I bent down and scooped the small silver hairpin off the dusty floorboards.
The faint scent of vanilla and fresh pine flared up in my nose again, sharp against the heavy smell of copper and dark magic.
I slid the cold metal deep into my pocket, letting my fingers linger there to ensure it was completely hidden.
I stood up straight and forced my expression to remain blank, but as I turned around, I realized I hadn't been fast enough.
Elder Helen was already walking toward the rocking chair, her sharp eyes scanning the area where I had just been standing.
She stopped right where I had been a second ago, her nose twitching as she caught the scent trail I had accidentally disturbed. Her gaze dropped to th
