CHAPTER 81
A Century Ago
Marcus clenched his fist tightly until his claws pierced his skin and drew blood. The pain cleared the fog just enough for him to reorganize his thoughts.
He took a shaky step back from the altar, chest heaving as he took short breaths. The visions still swirled behind his eyes as the false memories began to take root. It was golden and sweet on the surface but he knew it was deadly and poisonous.
“No,” he muttered. “You’re not real.” He shook his head. “You’re not mine.”
The heart pulsed again in answer, faster and more frantic. Amusement laced in its tone.
“But you came to me. You followed the blood trail. You called out to me and I answered. I am the only one who can help you and you know this. That is why you called out to me without even realizing it. I
