Sebastian’s POV
I watched from the darkness, leaning against the cold stonewall of the hidden corridor, as the three brothers carried Leila away. Their steps were hurried, breath ragged, eyes full of relief. The torches from their camp burned bright in the distance, and I could hear the faint echo of their triumphant shouts. But I did not rise. I did not give chase.
A slow smile spread across my face, calm and satisfied. They had thought they rescued her. They had thought they could defy me. Foolish boys. She was with them now, but her mind was no longer her own. I had anticipated their every move, manipulated their every step.The silk that bound her, the ritual that severed her soul’s bonds, those were the true victories. Her body might be free, but her mind... that was still mine to sh
