Stefano's POV

As Gianna stared at her ex-mate's lifeless body, a shudder rippled through her. Guilt flickered in her eyes, though mercy had guided her hand when she cut his throat; his injuries were fatal, and the Spirit Forest would've claimed him by nightfall regardless. I'd heard the spirits murmur through the trees, foretelling his fate.

I placed a hand on her shoulder, and she almost flinched. "It's okay," I murmured, "you're safe now."

She took a steadying breath, ...