Chapter 29 · The False God's Invite

"Step away from her, boy. Now."

Augustus didn't just enter the room; he owned the air. The gold plating on his armor bled a blinding, artificial light that made the shadows of the Void recoil. He stood there with a smile that didn't reach his eyes, his hand already white-knuckled around the hilt of his blade.

I didn't move. I tightened my grip on Selena’s waist, pulling her back against my chest until she gasped. I could feel her heart hammering like a trapped bird against my ribs.

"Boy?" I let out a short, jagged laugh. "That’s a bold choice of words for someone who just broke into my house without an invite."

Augustus’s eyes flickered. He didn't like the tone. He didn't like that I wasn't shaking. "This isn't your house, Cane. This is a wasteland. And Selena? She’s a piece of the Holy Order. She doesn't belong in a hole with a parasite like you."

"She belongs wherever I put her," I whispered, my voice dropping an octave. I felt Selena shiver. I leaned down, my lips brushing the shell of her ear. "Right, Selena? Tell him who you belong to now."

Selena’s breath hitched. She didn't answer.