Valerian rose slowly from the sofa.
There was not a trace of fear on his face.
The elder's pale eyes drifted briefly toward the dark stain spreading beneath Roman's jacket before lifting toward the second floor. For a terrifying moment, Tessa was certain he could see directly through the decorative panels concealing her position.
Perhaps he could.
Perhaps predators that old didn't need sight.
“You are wounded, Roman.”
Valerian's tone remained calm.
“And emotionally compromised.”
The observation sounded more dangerous than an outright threat.
The old wolf adjusted his cufflinks before offering a faint smile that never reached his eyes.
“We'll leave. For now.”
The words echoed through the living room.
Roman remained motionless.
The Council members turned toward the elevator.
Th
