Damien could not breathe after what Cassien told him.

The words pressed into his head, sharp and heavy. They did not fade. They did not soften. Every truth Cassien revealed stayed where it landed. Every warning echoed. Every mention of Fate made his chest tighten until the pain felt physical.

He stood alone in the long, silent hall, his fists clenched at his sides. His jaw locked so tight it ached. The walls felt closer than they ever had before. The air felt thick, like it was pressing against ...