Valerian Cross 26    

"Don't listen to him, Stephany! Don't go with him!"

 

Valerian's tone was raw with urgency. He stepped forward, but the moment he did, a crimson wall of writhing, pulsing blood surged up between them. It hardened into jagged tendrils, shifting like living thorns—an impenetrable barrier.

 

The other hunters behind him braced themselves, weapons drawn, but none dared to step into Lucien's trap.

 

Stephany turned to her brother, her chest tightening. His face was pale with fury, his silver eyes stormy with anger and worry.

 

"But I . . ." She hesitated, torn between love and loyalty, her heart aching.

 

Lucien's hand reached for her, his cold fingers brushing against hers. "Don't you see, Stephany?" His voice was low, coaxing. "Your brother is keeping you locked away. If you don't come with me now, we may never see each other again."

 

Her breath hitched. Never see him again?