The Edge of Control

For the next few days, Vexaria kept her distance. She told herself it was necessary—to think, to regain the control she felt slipping whenever Xypheron was near. But no matter how far she stayed, his presence lingered in her mind like a storm waiting to break.

Xypheron, however, wasn't the kind of man to be ignored.

The evening was quiet, the palace halls dimly lit by flickering torches as she made her way toward the library. She needed something—anything—to occupy her mind. But the moment she turned the corner, she felt it.

A presence.

She didn't need to see him to know who it was.

"You're predictable, Vexaria." Xypheron's voice was smooth as he stepped from the shadows. "Always running to solitude when things get complicated."

Vexaria exhaled sharply, willing her pulse to steady. "Or maybe I just prefer my own company."

He smirked, taking a slow step closer. "Liar."

Her spine stiffened. "You think you know everything, don't you?"

Xypheron tilted his head, watching her like a predator studying prey. "I know you better than you'd like to admit."

Vexaria turned to walk past him, but in an instant, he was in front of her, blocking her path. She clenched her fists, refusing to let frustration show.

"Move," she ordered.