Tarlyn’s POVThere’s a certain sound the wind makes when you know your time is up. It’s not the kind of wind that howls, it whispers, sneaks under doorways, and curls like cold fingers around your neck.That’s the sound I hear as I shove my last dress into the open suitcase. My hands are trembling. I’ve packed only what’s necessary, money, forged documents, a few clothes, and the piece of moonstone I always wore for protection. A gift from my mother. The last thing she gave me before life hardened her, and me with it.“I have to get out,” I whisper to myself. My voice sounds unfamiliar, hoarse, scared.Kane wasn’t supposed to play me. He wasn’t supposed to win. I was smart, I was careful. But somewhere between my ambition and his manipulation, I lost control of the narrative. And now, the palace walls feel like a trap instead of protection.The bag's zipper jams as I try to close it. Of course. Everything lately has fought back, even the little things. I yank it hard, too hard than I
Last Updated : 2025-10-30 Read more