Damon's POV
The crumpled report in my hand felt like a lifeline, a stroke of luck in a game I'd been playing for far too long. The outlanders' attack on HornSide. It was bad news if it spread among the people of the kingdom, a devastating blow, a strategic setback for Norman. But for me… it was an opportunity. A chance I wouldn't let slip through my fingers.
My spy network, meticulously cultivated over years, had yielded valuable information. Norman had sent troops to HornSide, a desperate attempt to reclaim lost ground. And, more importantly, Riley was with them. A thrill shot through me, and my heart beat in anticipation and long-suppressed desire. Norman wouldn't be there. That was my chance. My opportunity to strengthen the mate bond with Riley, to rekindle the flame that had flicke
