The brazier’s flames roared higher, casting grotesque shadows against the ancient stone walls. Heat rolled over Adriana’s skin, sweat slicking her palms though her eyes never wavered.Guards bound her wrists and forced her closer. The fire hissed and crackled, hungry, as if eager to swallow her whole.“Prove your loyalty,” Don Vescari intoned, voice harsh with tradition. “Walk through the flames, and emerge untouched—or die and cleanse our family of doubt.”A hush swept through the chamber.Isabella leaned forward in her chair, eyes glittering like a viper’s. Her lips curved in satisfaction. “Burn, little lamb.”Damian stood rooted, his chest rising and falling like a storm contained in fragile skin. His jaw clenched, his fists shook, but still—he hadn’t moved.Not yet.Adriana lifted her head, firelight dancing in her eyes. “If this is your justice,” she spat at the council, “then may your house fall with me.”A guard shoved her forward, and the flames roared louder, licking dangerou
Last Updated : 2026-01-28 Read more