NIKOLAI

She was RIGHT THERE, a few feet from me before he snatched her right out of the air. So close, and yet, so far away.

“It doesn't have to be this way Tophas, my mate has no business in our rivalry, let her go.” I deadpanned, hearing the din of my voice as it caught in the wind whipping about us before my brother’s uneven face jerked into an excited smile.

I could hear the thud of my heart beating and was aware how fast my breaths rushed out from my chest and yet, I could do nothing but stand and wait. No sudden movements.

“But you lie, brother,...