Drake pov.

I felt so stupid. Just for a second, though, like I was losing my mind, but it passed quickly. I stared at her—Lia—standing there with that smug smile, holding the symbol of her victory. Everything about her presence made me sick. I wanted to walk over and shove her out the door, but what would be the point? The Council had already made their decision, and there was nothing I could do about it.

This was going to be the worst day of my life.

I stayed quiet for what felt like an eternity, the silence in the room suffocating. I didn't even bother looking at her anymore;...