The howl that split the night made the torches tremble.
Lyra’s breath caught in her throat. The bond inside her screamed, wild and broken, clawing her chest until her knees gave way. She knew that sound. She could feel it like claws tearing her open.
Kael.
The den’s entrance exploded inward. Splinters of wood and shards of stone scattered across the floor as Kael strode in, golden eyes blazing, body streaked with blood and dirt. His fury filled the chamber, a storm that swallowed air and light alike.
“Get your hands off her.”
Darius didn’t flinch. He still stood close, his fingers lazily tracing Lyra’s jaw as if Kael’s arrival were nothing more than entertainment. Silver eyes gleamed with dark amusement.
“She seems comfortable enough,” Darius drawled. His lips brushed her temple in a
