Silence filled the room right after his voice echoed off the walls.

She's my fucking mate.

The words hung in the air, heavy. Karl's chest rose and fell rapidly, his claws unsheathed as he stared at Rieka's pale face. The fear in her eyes should have satisfied him as he has seen that look from countless enemies but tonight, it only burned him from inside.

Rieka's lips trembled as she tried to find her voice. “Mate?” She whispered hoarsely, clutching her dress.

“You… you said you'd never take another mate after…”

“Don't mention her name,” He snapped, moving away from her. The ghost of Uriel's scream clawed at his skull,...