The Unyielding Claim

Eldur's P.O.V.

The air in the room was filled with something foul—his scent, his pathetic presence, the lingering stench of a boy who didn't belong in Mai's world.

My fingers twitched, but I forced them still. Patience.

The burn of winter and embers curled in the air as I stepped forward, making my presence known.

Her silver eyes flicked toward me, and for a brief moment, I saw it—that flicker of recognition. The piece of her that was mine.

"Liam," I greeted, smirking as the boy stiffened. He knew.

He knew he was nothing but a weed in a garden that belonged to me.

But he was too stupid to pluck himself out.

"Mai," I murmured smoothly, tilting my head. "Come with me."

Liam sat up too quickly, his face twisting in panic. "Mai?"

I had already reached her.

Her body stiffened—but then her shoulders loosened. Her expression softened, her silver eyes dimming, as if falling into something warm and safe.