Chapter 38: The Bargain

Shade stood over Jade's unconscious body.

He traced her jawline with his fingers, his expression unreadable.

Selene watched from the doorway, arms crossed. "You're losing her."

Shade didn't look at her. "I know."

Selene stepped closer, her voice soft. Tempting. "I can help."

Shade's jaw tightened. "You tried to kill me."

Selene smirked. "And yet, here I am. Offering you something you need."

Shade turned to her. "Why?"

Selene leaned in, her breath warm against his skin. "Because I want to see what happens when you break."

Shade's pulse pounded.

Selene's fingers trailed over his chest, slow, deliberate. "You think Lucian was the only one who knew what you were?" She tilted her head. "You're still evolving, Shade. You haven't even scratched the surface."

Shade's hands curled into fists. "I don't need you."

Selene chuckled. "No?" She pressed against him, lips hovering over his throat. "Then why aren't you stopping me?"

Shade closed his eyes.

Because deep down—he wanted it.

The temptation to let go, to become what he was meant to be, to stop fighting—

It was there.

And Selene knew it.

She kissed him.

It was slow, teasing, pulling him in like a riptide. Shade let her, for just a moment. He let the darkness consume him, let himself want it.

Then—

He ripped away, breathing hard.

Selene smirked. "Still fighting, huh?"

Shade exhaled sharply. "Get out."

Selene tilted her head. "You need me."

Shade's voice was low. "If I let you stay, I'll kill you."

Selene smiled. "Now that… I'd love to see."

Then she left, disappearing into the night.

And Shade?

He was left alone with his demons.