The tower room felt smaller now that the binding connected them so deeply. Liam stood at the tall arched window watching shadows twist unnaturally across the estate grounds. Julian remained close behind him. Their wrists still glowed with faint matching marks from the Heart of Blackwood. Every breath Liam took carried an echo of Julian's steady heartbeat and simmering hunger.
The system notification hovered at the edge of their shared awareness.
Midnight Rule Reinforced. The Bound Pair must reach the True Author's sanctum before the final chime. Separation invites dissolution.
Julian rested a strong hand on Liam's shoulder and squeezed. His touch sent warmth spreading through the bond. "We move together. No hesitation." His voice was low and rough with lingering desire from their earlie
