Still wearing a speculative look, the storekeeper murmured, "I think I have the perfect piece for you," then led me to a back room.
The walls were lined with various toys, but it was the collar that caught my eye—a beautifully crafted piece of silver with an intricate clasp.
"It's the awakening twist," she said, holding it up to the light. "But it’s also protection."
I stared at the collar, feeling the weight of what it represented. Submission to Alex, protection from Hartwell. "I'll take it," I murmured. But I wouldn’t be wearing it for submission.
The shopkeeper nodded. "Good choice," she said. "It's not just any collar—it's enchanted."
The words sent a shiver down my spine. "What do you mean?"
"It's made by a local witch, to protect special…humans," she said. "It'll keep you safe
