Chapter 21The Thread that BindsAnne POVNight came quietly, too quietly, like the world was holding its breath. The palace torches burned low, their flames swaying lazily in the dim corridors while wolves moved like shadows across stone. I could hear their soft footsteps, their quiet murmurs, the tension in every voice.Something was shifting in the air. A stirring. A warning.Charles stood at the balcony overlooking the courtyard. The moonlight traced his silhouette, sharp shoulders, strong stance, unmoving like a guardian carved from night. I waited at the doorway, unsure whether to approach or leave him with his thoughts.He must have sensed me, because he spoke without turning.“You are afraid.”I swallowed softly. “Should I lie?”“No,” he replied. “I prefer truth.”I walked forward, slow steps, the stone cold under my feet. The breeze brushed against my skin, carrying distant scents of wolves training below and the faint burning of herbs from the healer’s wing.“You could die,”
Last Updated : 2025-12-01 Read more