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“You never answered my question the other day.” His eyes searched mine, and I shrugged, pretending I didn’t know what he was talking about so we could delay reality a bit longer. He growled, nipping my ear. “Don’t toy with me, Elowyn. When this is all over, tell me you’ll run away with me.”
Releasing a breathy laugh, I arched into him. “It doesn’t seem like you’re giving me much choice.”
“I enjoy getting what I want.”
“We should get back to the group.”
His grip on my waist tightened, pushing me harder into the wall. “Elowyn,” he warned.
Kissing him softly, I opened my lips an inch for my tongue to tease his. I knew as soon as I answered, reality would crash down on us, but I didn’t want to feel his absence—too afraid it’d be the last time I’d have the chance to touch him. Taste him.
Caressing my fingertips along his jaw, I kissed his cheek and replied. “Talon, when I said you’re not giving me a choice, it’s because there’s nothing else I’d love to do more.”
He nuzzled into my hand, resting his forehead on mine. “Then you better make it through this trial. Any means necessary, firefly. Or I swear I’ll make you repay your debt in the afterlife.”
I smiled, knowing he meant every word, and kissed him once more, savoring every second until he pulled away and guided me out of the enclave and back to the group.
If the stakes weren’t already high enough, the future of my heart was now involved.
We approached the cobblestone path that led to the floating set of double doors. I’d grown familiar with the odd markings covering the granite slabs—and the opaque scales that wrapped around the columns on either side. However, its monstrosity never failed to take my breath away. The grandiose crest that floated above shone in the warm sun, the snakes on either side appearing to snap and hiss at the guests who entered the doors below it.
It was a threat.
A promise.
That all who entered would be privy to a savage show.
Talon stopped short of the doors and faced me. “I’ll meet you here when you’re done.”
I straightened my vest, feeling suffocated under its weight. “Okay.”
“Okay.”
We remained in place, our eyes locked on one another—confirmation that we both knew it was merely wishful thinking. That the stars had already written our fate, and all we could do was pray it was in our favor. I loosened my breath and turned to face the door, tears stinging my eyes as they opened on a windless breeze, cold winter air smacking me in the face.
“Remember, any means necessary.”
I wiped my palms against my leathers as I stepped through the portal—gasping in awe of the mountains before me. I stretched my neck all the way to the side to glimpse the top of the peak. Adrenaline raced through my veins, feeling more mortal than I’d ever had in my entire life.
Swallowing my fear, I lifted my chin as I crossed the rocky terrain to where the king sat perched on his throne ahead.
The fae court encased the front of the mountain behind him, their theater seating extending into the sky.
We were going to be expected to climb to the top.
The large white board that donned each competitor’s name—once clean and unmarked—was now sullied and with tally marks and crossed-off names. My name was at the top, followed by Aeron, but it meant nothing. It was a ridiculous, sadistic game to satiate the fae’s bloodthirsty appetite.
Although, I’d be lying if I said it didn’t get inside my head.
The king crossed his legs as we took our spots. All too casual and pleased to be there.
Calandra’s face appeared grim and ashen, so I gave her a forlorn smile and took her hand, squeezing it once before looking ahead. Although it was every person for themselves, I knew firsthand what a difference it made to have someone on your side. No one wanted to feel alone—especially during a perilous competition such as this one. I wouldn’t resent her in the slightest if she won.
It was just a shame I’d be the one getting out.
I squeezed her hand again. Though it doesn’t alleviate any of my guilt.
“Competitors, greetings,” the king bellowed. His auburn hair rustled in the wind.
