The day came to an end, and I made sure everything, including the deals, was put in place before we left the office. I was supposed to go see Elara, but because of the cut on my neck, I would have to take some days off, even though I never usually waited long before seeing her. Using work as a cover-up would be the perfect excuse so she wouldn’t find out what had happened today.

I had lied to her, but wanting her as my comfort and peace had never been a lie. If they told her about the curse, ...