Aleera
Hushed voices wake me. They sound angry as I open my eyes. The last thing I remember is choking on the shadows and Darius grabbing me. I felt myself dying, and, in some ways, I even prayed for death. At least I won’t feel like this. I feel hollow. I tasted their magic only briefly before they took it from me. My bond screams angrily, writhing within me for it to come back.
“Darius, just leave him be. I am right here with them.”
“Anything happens to him, and it is on you. It will be your fault,” Darius growls and I hear the door slam. I jump at the sound, and my eyes open to find Kalen beside me, asleep. He looks so peaceful, and I gently brush his cheek with my fingertips. His stubble is rough and scratchy when I feel the bed dip behind me. I glance over my shoulder to see Lycus
