Selene POV
I burst through a side door. Fresh air hits my face.
Outside. I'm outside.
A window sits low in the wall. Just big enough to squeeze through. Beyond it, the forest stretches dark and inviting.
Freedom.
My hands grip the stone ledge. I pull myself up.
"I wouldn't do that if I were you."
I freeze.
Keanu stands in the doorway. His face is calm. Almost sympathetic.
"Let me go." My voice shakes. "Please. Just let me—"
"The King can tolerate many things." He moves closer. "He tolerates you wearing his royal robe. He tolerates you calling him by his name. He even tolerates you slapping him."
He's right in front of me now.
"But he will not tolerate you ignoring his existence."
"I'm not—"
His hand closes around my wrist. Gentle but unbreakable.
"He ordered m
