It was that fire in her that captivated Gavriel the most. She had nothing left… no power, no protection yet she didn’t cower. Any other woman in her place would have begged for mercy, but Althea stood her ground. Perhaps it was courage… or maybe the stubborn belief that her father would eventually come for her.

Gavriel sat on the edge of the makeshift bed, his gaze fixed on her. Slowly, he leaned closer until only an inch separated them. A faint, amused smile curved his lips as he ...