“Eli don’t let go!” Lyla’s scream tore through the void.

“I’m not letting you go!” His arms crushed around her waist as they plummeted. Wind howled, shadows clawed, and whispers pressed against her skull. Mine. Mine. Mine.

The dagger in her grip burned hotter, its runes glowing, fusing itself into her palm.

“Throw it away!” Eli roared over the storm.

“I I can’t!” Her hand wouldn’t open. The blade had already chosen her.

“Then I’ll tear it from you ...