Chapter 44 – Selene’s Blackmail
(Elena—POV)
The morning after the council meeting feels worse than any storm cloud I've ever seen. The Citadel is too quiet and still, like the walls are holding their breath.
Lucian leaves before dawn to deal with border fights that aren't going as planned. He kissed my forehead, said, "I'll be back before the moon hits its peak," and then disappeared in a flash of silver.
I should feel safe because he never breaks his word.
But something isn't right.
I can tell because the guards won't look me in the eye. Like how the handmaids talk behind closed doors. The way my wolf paces back and forth, teeth on edge.
There is movement in the shadows.
I just don't know what.
But.
---
As I walk toward the library, a quiet voice cuts through the silence.
"Wel
