BOUND TO THE SHADOW PRINCE

Chapter 4: The Shadow’s Claim

The air in Seraphina’s chamber was thick with the remnants of magic, an oppressive weight pressing against her skin. The shadows that had tried to claim her had receded, but the unease they left behind lingered.

Kael stood at the center of the room, his sword still drawn, his storm-gray eyes scanning every corner. His presence was both reassuring and unnerving. He hadn’t spoken since the creature had fled, but the tension in his posture spoke volumes.

Seraphina took a steadying breath. “What was that thing?”

Kael exhaled slowly, running a hand through his midnight hair. “A Shadow Wraith.”

She shivered. “I thought the castle was protected.”

“It is,” he said, his voice sharp. “Which means whatever this is—it’s getting stronger.”

Seraphina’s fingers curled into the sheets. “Because of me.”

Kael’s gaze snapped to hers. He hesitated, then nodded. “It seems so.”

The truth sat between them like a heavy stone. She had come to this castle as a bride. A bargain. A pawn in a treaty.

But now?

Now, she was something far more dangerous.

The mark on her wrist still tingled, as if it had a life of its own. She turned her hand over, tracing the faint silver lines that pulsed beneath her skin.

A claim.

But by what?

Her mind whirled with possibilities, none of them good.

Kael finally sheathed his sword, stepping closer. “I’ll have the guards patrol your chamber.”

Seraphina scoffed. “I don’t think a sword can stop that.”

Kael’s lips twitched. “No. But I can.”

The weight of his words settled over her. There was no hesitation. No doubt.

He would protect her.

But why?

Because of the treaty? Because she was now bound to the curse?

Or was there something more?

Seraphina studied him. There was something hidden beneath his carefully guarded exterior. A part of him that had not yet revealed itself.

And she intended to find it.