Chapter 29 · The Price of My Soul

"Get away from her, you monster!" Justin's voice slammed through the sanctuary. Outside the barrier, his alpha aura hit the shield hard enough to shake dust from the ancient stones.

Kane didn't flinch. His fingers stayed locked around my wrist, his thumb resting over the hot pulse where our bond burned.

"He's not a monster," I said.

My voice shook. Kane's grip tightened—not enough to hurt. Just enough to remind me who controlled the space between us.

"Quiet, Sia." His breath brushed my ear. Warm. Close. Dangerous. "Let the little dog bark. It makes finding his throat easier."

"I'm not a dog, Kane!" Justin roared. "Sia, look at yourself! You're shaking. You're terrified. Step away from that relic, or I'll tear this whole forest down with you inside it!"

I looked toward the shattered archway.

The barrier flashed blue-white. Justin's shape stood beyond it, blurred by magic and rage. Behind him, scouts crowded the entrance. Their eyes glowed through the shield.

Then I looked back at Kane.

Gold burned in his eyes. Not just anger. Not just the hunger left over from the blood he'd tasted.