Page 179 of Vameer

Rune opens her mouth. And then I see it.

Blood. Pouring from her throat.

I stare at it.

For an eighth of a precious second, I stare at her neck.

Trying to comprehend.

My heartbeat was racing. But… now it’s slowing.

My mate sags.

I release the dagger and catch her against my chest, pressing a palm to her throat. Pushing gravito against her skin. Sealing the wound. Stopping the bleeding.

The dagger clangs to the floor.

And I see it.

Tosa was aiming for me. But Rune… My mate… My Heart.

She took what was meant for me.

My gravito snaps into a roiling blood red all around us.

“Lo siento.” My voice cracks. “Mon Amour.”

Rune reaches up and grips my wrist.

Part Three

Fulfilling Fate

Chapter 102

Vameer

177 YEARS AGO

Itip my head back and let the rain wash away the blood on my face.

The field is silent. Filled with the scent of death.

Victory is not always sweet.

Just necessary.

I take another step through the blood-soaked grass.

Fingers grip my ankle.

I draw my sword as I drop my gaze.

A dying man. Past saving. No matter his side in this war.

I twist my blade, point down.

“The Dreaded one can save her.” He chokes on the words. Blood speckling his lips. “Take her to him. Do not wait!”