Dylan still held my hand, his grip steady and unyielding, as if daring anyone to try and pull me away. My skin burned where his fingers touched mine, a reminder that the bond between us was now unshakable, sealed by his mark.
Amy, surged inside me, her voice fierce with triumph. We’re free. He claimed us. He won’t let them touch us ever again.
But my human heart twisted with fear. All those eyes elders, warriors, guests burned into my back like brands. Whispers swirled around me, sharp as knives.
“Dylan Thorne… marked a maid?”
“She’s Caleb’s reject.”
“What power does she hold that he would claim her so openly?”
Every word made me shrink further into myself, though Dylan stood tall, unbothered, his presence dominating the room.
Across the hall, Caleb trembled with fury. His jaw was t
