Aldus inhaled deeply, steadying himself. His jaw tightened, but when he moved, it was with surprising restraint. He reached for her hand, his palm large and warm as it wrapped around hers. Without a word, he tried to lead her from the chamber.
But the instant their skin touched, Livia recoiled. It was not the warmth she felt—it was fire, a burn that seared straight into her bones. She snatched her hand back, as though his touch scalded her.
Aldus froze. Slowly, his head turned toward her, his golden eyes narrowing, his stare dark and unforgiving.
His wolf snarled in his chest. "She rejects us. Again".
Her breath hitched. She could not look at him—she dropped her gaze instantly, her heart hammering in her chest.
"I can walk on my own, Your Majesty," she whispered, her voice trembling but firm.
And with that, she turned on her heel, striding toward the door with a quickness born not of defiance, but of fear.
