Eira’s POV The third beat didn’t come from beneath the floor. It came from the table. "Thump." I stare at the object. It’s a small pendant, suspended a fraction of an inch above a shallow stone base by some unseen force. The metal is dark, threaded with something that looks almost liquid beneath its surface. At its center is a tiny symbol. Not the full ancient bloodline mark. Just a fragment of it. I take a step forward. Art’s hand closes around my wrist. His grip is firm, his bear instincts flaring to life. "Wait." I look at him. "It’s calling me." His jaw tightens. "That’s exactly why you shouldn’t touch it." I pull my arm back, gently but firmly. He lets go, but he doesn't step away. I reach for the pendant. My fingers are inches f

