Remo’s POV
The ruin stank of charred runes and old blood. I could still taste him in the back of my throat — grave-dirt and starlight. If I closed my eyes, I could feel where his cold touch had sunk into my ribs.
A phantom chain. Still rattling.
Beside me, Ella breathed slow, shallow. She hadn’t woken since the light snapped him out of her. Her pulse was a constant drum in my head — the only thing holding the beast inside me on its leash.
She’d done it. Broken his grip. Again. And yet part of me wanted to roar at her for ever letting him so close. Like it was her fault. Like it wasn’t me who’d failed to keep him out.
I ran a hand through her hair. She didn’t stir. Good. She deserved the sleep. I deserved none of it.
Behind me, Christian’s boots scuffed against the ancient stone. He’
