Lucian stops mid-pace. “Why?”
Kieran leans back in the armchair, his expression unreadable. “I plan to join the politics of the court. My kind have been in hiding for far too long. As a result, there are those who now consider us—people who can both shift and use magic—to be abominations.” He shakes his head. “I won’t let that stand unchallenged.”
Leon raises an eyebrow. “That’s a bold move.”
“It’s a necessary one,” Kieran says calmly.
I think back to three nights ago. I’d gone to check on Daciana, and I saw Kieran there—standing over her bed in the low light, his hand stroking her hair with a gentleness that didn’t fit the hard edges of the man I thought I knew. He didn’t say anything. Just stood there, watching her breathe.
I wonder if politics is the only reason he wants to stay.
Lucian nods slowly. “You’re welcome to stay as long as you need, Alpha Kieran.”
“Appreciated.” Kieran’s gaze flicks to me, a knowing look in his eyes.
I push back from the table and get to my feet. “I’m going to go take my mate home now.”
“Give Selene our regards,” Leon says.
I don’t answer. I’m already halfwayout the door.
The infirmary smellslike herbs and antiseptics. I’ve memorized the scent by now; I’ve been here every day for a week.
When I step into her room, Daciana is awake, propped up on pillows. Her color is better, and she looks even stronger than she did yesterday.
Selene is asleep beside her, head resting on the mattress, one hand loosely holding Daciana’s. Her hair falls across her face, dark against her pale skin. She doesn’t wake up when her friend speaks.
“She finally fell asleep about an hour ago,” Daciana says softly. “Wouldn’t rest until I promised I’d wake her if I needed anything.”
I move closer, keeping my footsteps quiet. The healer who was manipulated into helping Selene take Astra was found dead in her quarters two days ago. Throat torn out. The official report says animal attack, but we all know better. Whoever was controlling Zane made sure to tie up loose ends. Another ghost haunting the halls.
“I’m sorry we haven’t had a chance to talk.”
“Don’t be.” Daciana’s voice is gentle but firm. “She needs you more than she needs to keep vigil over me.” Her gaze drops to Selene. “She has become a little fragile ever since what happened. I wish…” She trails off, swallowing hard. “I wish you could help her heal. Not all wounds are visible.”
“I will,” I say, and I mean it.
I crouch down beside Selene, brushing the hair from her face. There are dark circles under her eyes. Carefully, I slide one arm under her knees, the other around her back, and lift her into my arms.
She stirs, mumbling something incoherent against my chest.
“Shh,” I murmur. “I’ve got you.”
Her eyes flutter open, unfocused. “Seth?”
“Yeah. Taking you home.”
“But Daciana—”
“Is fine,” Daciana says from the bed. “Go. Please. You need some rest.”
Selene’s protest dies on her lips. She’s too spent to fight. Her headdrops against my shoulder, and I feel the tension slowly drain from her body.
“Thank you,” I tell Daciana.
She only nods, a small smile touching her lips.
I carry Selene out into the brisk night air. The walk back to our quarters isn’t long, but she’s asleep again before we’re halfway there. The bond between us thrums quietly—still raw, still healing, but steady. Stronger every day.
