Called to Account

Seraphine did not resist as the soldiers entered the tent. Their expressions were careful, their movements respectful—but there was no question about their orders.

"The prince wishes to see you, Your Highness," one of them said, bowing slightly.

Seraphine simply nodded. "Then take me to him."

The walk to Kaelith's tent was silent, the night pressing in around them. But her mind was anything but quiet.

Bloodbound. Marked. The words echoed in her thoughts, demanding understanding.

As they reached the tent, the guards stepped aside. One pushed open the heavy flap.

Kaelith stood inside, arms crossed, his golden eyes unreadable. The moment she entered, he dismissed the soldiers with a sharp nod.

The tent flap closed.

"Start talking, Seraphine," he said. His voice was calm—but there was no mistaking the edge beneath it.

Seraphine lifted her chin. "I was looking for the truth."

Kaelith exhaled, running a hand through his hair. "And what did you find?"

She met his gaze. "Enough to know you've been keeping secrets from me."

Silence stretched between them.

Then, Kaelith stepped forward—too close, too intent. His fingers brushed her wrist, a touch that was more restraint than affection.

"And what will you do with that knowledge?" he murmured.

Seraphine's pulse quickened.

Because she wasn't sure of the answer yet.

To be continued…

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