Alina’s skin still burned from Riven’s possessive grip, every nerve still thrumming with the memory of his dominance. The chamber’s golden light had faded to dusk, and shadows pooled in the corners, thick and restless. She pressed her forehead against the wall, catching her breath, heart hammering—not just from desire, but from a growing unease deep in her chest.
The mark on her wrist pulsed faintly, shadows rippling beneath her skin. It wasn’t just lingering magic from the night with Riven. Something else was stirring, a sensation she had felt before but never so strong: a subtle tug, like the Veil itself was watching, aware of her choices, and hungry for what was to come.
Kael appeared in the doorway without a sound, his dark form a contrast to the golden residue of Riven’s fire. His s
