Althea’s hands trembled at her sides. Slowly, she turned to Gavriel and gave him a faint, reassuring smile. The moment he saw it, his heart dropped.

“No…” Gavriel growled, trying to step toward her, but the dark mist tightened instantly, locking him in place. That smile. He hated it. He could feel her emotions clearly through their bond, her resolve, her acceptance and her willingness to sacrifice herself.

“Althea!” he shouted. “Don’t you dare!”

Hades laughed, his voice ...