Sunlight streams through the window, accompanied by the soft melody of chirping birds. I stir awake, my body groaning in protest with every movement. Stretching, a sharp sting jolts me fully conscious.

“Ow!” I exclaim, wincing.

The unexpected sound of my mate’s voice makes me flinch, causing another painful twinge. “What’s wrong?” Prince Jorlan stands near the window but moves toward me now, his presence sending an unwelcome rush of apprehension through ...