I did not intend to eavesdrop, even when I knew my steps were quiet and purposeful. I am always watching my back.
The council chamber doors were half-closed when I reached the corridor, their carved oak panels failing to seal in the voices within. I had come to speak with Clay about security patrols and the hunt for the beast. Instead, I heard Selene’s name.
I stopped. My heart skipped a beat.
Torin’s voice carried first, measured but urgent. “We cannot keep her in the cells indefinitely.”
My heart sank.
Clay answered, low and controlled. “We won’t. At the next council meeting, we’ll have her released.”
Released. The word burned in me like a hot iron turned red with heat and fire. I pushed the doors open without ceremony.
Both men turned. Clay stood at the head of the long stone ta
