The room was quiet, save for the soft crackle of the fire and the rhythmic breathing of the girl on the couch. Rosalinda stirred, lashes fluttering against her cheeks as the herbal enchantment began to wear off. Her fingers twitched first, then her shoulders shifted beneath the blanket Seraphine had draped over her.

Azrakar’s eyes snapped to her instantly. The change in his posture was subtle, but Seraphine noticed it. The ancient demon, who had moments ago spoken of primal protectiveness, ...