Gabriel's smile widened, and he pulled me closer, his arm snaking around my waist in a possessive embrace. "Oh, didn't your queen tell you?" he taunted, his lips brushing the shell of my ear. "I'm afraid I've taken the liberty of...borrowing her dear mother. Such a shame, really - the poor woman must be absolutely terrified."
I felt a surge of anguish and rage, my hands clenching into trembling fists at my sides. "Let her go, Gabriel," I pleaded, my voice barely above a whisper. "This has nothing to do with her. I'm the one you want."
Gabriel tutted, shaking his head in a mockery of pity. "Oh, but it has everything to do with her, my dear. You see, your mother's life is the only leverage I have to ensure your...cooperation." His grip tightened, and I winced in pain. "So, unless you want
