***Bane’s POV
The library was empty except for the faint crackle of the fireplace and the scent of dust clinging to old leather bindings. Bane kept his voice low, eyes scanning the doorway every few moments. “We don’t have much time. If Katherine catches us digging—”
“Then she’ll know we’re onto her,” Lizzy finished, tugging a thick tome onto the table. The book hit with a heavy thud. She blew dust from the cover and squinted at the faded gold lettering. The Bloodlines of Shadow and Song.
Bane frowned. “That one’s restricted.”
Lizzy lifted a brow. “So is locking your mate in a spell-bound prison. Forgive me if I’m not exactly worried about following the rules right now.”
Her words cut sharp, but they carried a fire that stirred something in him. He pushed the thought aside, focusing a
